Police attended a shooting on March 23, 2026 at the Whatcom Road Park & Ride lot in Abbotsford.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Charge laid

39-year-old Abbotsford man charged in fatal shooting at park and ride lot in Abbotsford: IHIT

Jun 15, 2026 | 2:49 PM

ABBOTSFORD – Homicide investigators in B.C. say a 39-year-old Abbotsford man has been charged for his alleged role in a shooting that claimed the life of a 69-year-old Abbotsford man earlier this year.

Integrated Homicide Investigation Team spokesperson Sgt. Freda Fong says investigators have meticulously examined forensic findings and witness statements to assemble what they believe occurred on the evening of March 23, 2026.

Abbotsford PD officers responded to a report of a shooting that night at the Whatcom Road Park & Ride lot, the site of a large encampment. When they arrived, they secured the area and discovered a man suffering from life-threatening injuries. The victim was transported to hospital but later succumbed to his injuries, despite medical efforts.

Over the past three months, IHIT investigators carefully examined forensic findings and witness accounts to piece together the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

On Saturday, June 13, IHIT members arrested 39-year-old James Jared Yake of Abbotsford, and he was subsequently charged with manslaughter with a firearm in relation to the homicide of 69-year-old Wayne Versfelt of Abbotsford.

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Investigators believe this was an isolated incident involving the victim and the accused who were known to each other.

“Anytime there is gun violence, it can leave residents feeling shaken and concerned for their safety, and it is particularly troubling and impactful when it occurs around the most vulnerable members of our community,” Sgt. Fong said. “IHIT investigators remained committed to uncovering the truth, and it is our hope that the laying of this charge represents a step toward closure for the victim’s loved ones and the community.”

Since the matter is now before the courts, Sgt. Fong says no further information will be released.

by Mike Vanden Bosch

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39-year-old Abbotsford man charged in fatal shooting at park and ride lot in Abbotsford: IHIT

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