World News
Indian-Origin Sikh Man Kidnapped in Broad Daylight Outside California Gurdwara, Killed in Mistaken Identity Tragedy
A quiet Tuesday afternoon in Tracy, California, turned into a nightmare for one Sikh family.
Avtar Singh, a 57-year-old Indian-origin community member and devoted father, was kidnapped in broad daylight outside a local gurdwara. What initially seemed like a shocking abduction soon unfolded into a heartbreaking case of mistaken identity that has shaken the local community.
A quiet Tuesday afternoon in Tracy, California, turned into a nightmare for one Sikh family.
Avtar Singh, a 57-year-old Indian-origin community member and devoted father, was kidnapped in broad daylight outside a local gurdwara. What initially seemed like a shocking abduction soon unfolded into a heartbreaking case of mistaken identity that has shaken the local community.
Surveillance footage shows three suspects forcing Singh into the back of an SUV around 2:30 pm. The incident happened just outside the gurdwara premises, a place where Singh had spent over two decades serving others. According to San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow, Singh attempted to fight back but was ultimately overpowered.
Hours later, when his wife returned home from work around 9 pm, she found their three young children alone. Growing concerned, she reported him missing.
Days later, authorities discovered a body near Lake Berryessa, nearly two hours away from Tracy. Police later confirmed it was Avtar Singh.
Investigators have stated that Singh was not the intended target. Sheriff Withrow emphasized that the attack was not random but part of a targeted act involving another individual. “Our detectives are working tirelessly to investigate this case and identify those responsible for this terrible act,” he said.
For the Sikh community, the loss is deeply personal.
Singh had served for 23 years as the head cook at his gurdwara, known for his sincerity, dedication, and warm nature. A colleague, Deep Singh, described him as more than just a cook — he was someone who treated everyone like family and was always ready to help.
The tragedy feels even heavier because Singh had recently become a father to premature triplets just six months ago. Friends say he was overjoyed stepping into this new chapter of life.
A fundraiser organized through GoFundMe describes him as a “beloved sevadaar” whose loving nature made everyone feel at home. The campaign has drawn support from across communities, highlighting how deeply his loss is felt.
As investigators continue their search for answers, a grieving family is left to cope with an unimaginable loss — one that began in broad daylight and ended in tragedy.
