SURREY - Gunmen fired at least 10 bullets at Jag Johal through the front windshield of his SUV, which was parked in a Newton strip mall Thursday afternoon.

His wife and four-year-old son weren't hit.

Johal, 37, died shortly afterward in Royal Columbian Hospital.

"The motive is unknown at this time but we do know the victim is known to police," said Sgt. Jennifer Pound, spokeswoman for the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team. "This apparent targeted shooting occurred in broad daylight in a highly populated public area where many businesses are located. The potential for further victims was high and this selfish act of violence is not taken lightly by investigators."

A handgun with a silencer was found at the scene. The shooting happened just before 3 p.m. Johal was sitting in the front passenger seat of a Chrysler Pacifica, parked in front of the Early Years Centre and Child Care Options office at 6846 King George Blvd., when he was attacked.

Surrey RCMP Sgt. Drew Grainger said police arrived to "a scene of chaos" after receiving multiple 911 calls.

"The brazenness and this deplorable act that occurred in this family oriented business area is just unthinkable," Grainger said.

Pandora Francis, of nearby Maid Brigade, said she didn't see anything or hear any shots but is nevertheless horrified by the attack.

"I was pretty shocked," she said of the shooting. "Especially in the public like that, in daylight. I hope it doesn't happen again."

News reports indicate the victim's brother is Shminder Singh Johal, who was sent to prison for 18 years in July for his part in a cocaine and gun smuggling operation.

Homicide investigators are asking anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the IHIT tipline at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448).

tzytaruk@thenownewspaper.com