Tragic Abbotsford Shooting Underscores the Importance of CPR and First Aid Skills
A devastating incident in Abbotsford has highlighted both the urgency of ongoing public-safety concerns and the critical value of knowing lifesaving skills such as CPR.
Nineteen-year-old university student Jagvir Malhi was fatally shot in a brazen daylight attack connected to the ongoing gang conflict in B.C.’s Lower Mainland, according to the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).
The full news report can be found here:
👉 Fatal Abbotsford shooting connected to ongoing gang conflict: IHIT
Despite the severity of the situation, an off-duty nurse did everything he could in an effort to save Malhi’s life.
A Nurse’s Immediate Response
At around 3:30 p.m., off-duty nurse Richard Tarenta was driving through the intersection of Ross and Simpson Roads when he noticed a young man lying in a pool of blood. His instinct was to act.
Tarenta pulled over immediately and began performing CPR, continuing tirelessly until paramedics arrived.
He later described the scene as unlike anything he had ever encountered:
“I’ve seen plenty but nothing like this… When you see a gunshot wound to the head, it’s kind of hard to imagine a positive outcome.”
Although emergency crews worked on the victim for an extended period and transported him by air ambulance, Malhi tragically died a short time later.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The shooting occurred near a public school, prompting concerns about the safety of community spaces.
IHIT Cpl. David Lee noted:
“This shooting occurred near a public school, a blatant disregard for the safety of the community. We are fortunate that school was not in session at the time.”
Investigators believe the incident was targeted and connected to ongoing Lower Mainland gang violence. Police spent much of the evening at the scene, including examining a white vehicle believed to be linked to the investigation.
The victim was soon identified by Indo-Canadian media as Jagvir Malhi, a student at the University of the Fraser Valley. UFV later issued a statement offering condolences and confirming that counselling services would be made available to students.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or video footage from the area to contact IHIT or Crime Stoppers.
Why CPR and First Aid Training Matter
Situations like this reinforce a difficult reality: while not every life can be saved, immediate intervention gives victims their best chance.
The off-duty nurse’s willingness to step in—despite the traumatic scene—demonstrates the importance of knowing how to respond confidently during a medical emergency.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) are proven, critical tools in emergencies involving cardiac arrest, trauma, and unresponsiveness. Early action can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.
If you want to gain these essential skills, you can explore certified CPR and AED training programs here:
👉 https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
Learn How to Help in an Emergency
If you want to be prepared to act when seconds matter, consider enrolling in a certified First Aid and CPR course.
The skills you learn may one day help save a life.
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