'Tragic death' of 18-year-old Ekampreet Singh Sahni in Newcastle sparks grief and calls for justice

On the night of 23–24 April, Ekampreet was fatally shot while spending time with friends at a beach in Newcastle, Sydney. His father, Amrinder Sahni, told SBS Punjabi that Ekam had spoken to his mother over the phone around 10 pm and had assured her he would return home shortly. That call was the last time the family heard from him. The incident has left his family and the Indian community heartbroken and in deep shock, with growing calls for justice.

The community pays tribute after Punjabi youth Ekam Sahni was shot dead in Newcastle. Credit: Amrinder Singh

Highlights:

• Police have arrested a 22-year-old man, who was recently released on bail, in connection with the murder.
• Ekampreet spent the day with his grandparents, who had arrived from India just hours before the tragedy.

Ekampreet, a young man with a bright future ahead of him, migrated to Australia in 2020 with his family from Rajpura, Punjab.

18 years old Ekam Sahni's old picture. Credit: Amrinder Singh

In an emotional interview with SBS Punjabi, Ekampreet’s father Amrinder Sahni shared their ongoing wait for justice.

"On the night of the incident, Ekam spent the day at home with his grandparents, who had just arrived the very same day from India. Around 10 pm, he left to meet friends at a local beach."

"Ekam had spoken to his mother over the phone and assured her that he would return shortly. Tragically, that was the last time we heard from Ekam," Mr Sahni said.

The community is in shock and despair after 18-year-old Ekam Sahni's tragic death. Credit: Amrinder Singh

What began as a typical evening for a young man turned into a nightmare. Reports indicate that after a minor argument at a beach car park, Ekam was shot in the chest.

Following the shooting, the vehicle involved was set on fire a short distance from the place of the tragedy.

In a statement shared with SBS Punjabi, NSW Police have advised that a 22-year-old has been arrested at Newcastle Police station and is charged with murder.

"The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to piece together the details surrounding the tragic event," the police said.

Ekam Sahni's father, Amrinder Sahni, with Ekam's mother. Credit: Amrinder Singh

Community leaders like Amar Singh have expressed their outrage over the 'tragic killing'.

"We are calling for a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served", said Mr Singh.

Before the tragedy, Ekam was studying automotive engineering and had dreams of opening his own workshop.

As the investigation continues, Ekam’s family is still trying to come to terms with their loss.

Police have further appealed to the community to contact them on 1800 333 000 or email  https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au in case anyone has any information on this case.

Click on the audio icon to listen to the full report and interview in Punjabi.

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