Man shot dead in Chilliwack known to police

The man who was shot and killed early Sundaymorning in centralChilliwackhas been identified as 33-year-old James Vidal.

Vidalhad a lengthycriminal record and was known to police.

Integrated Homicide Investigation Team spokesman Cpl. Frank Jang said the murder is not considered to be a random act, and police are looking into whether it is connected to the ongoing gang violence in the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland.

Vidal was gunned down at 6:30 a.m. in the 45700-block of Alexander Avenue, a street with a number of small businesses and a fast food restaurant.

"We are so fortunate that these bullets didn't hurt anyone else," said Jang.

Vidal's criminal record includes convictions for robbery, weapons possessionand breach of conditions. In 2016 he was charged with break and enter, uttering threats, assault and assault with a weapon.

Anyone with information is asked to call IHIT at 1-877-551- IHIT (4448), or emailihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).