WARNING: The following account involves a homicide and self-inflicted harm.
A man from Hamilton who used a crossbow to kill his father has admitted to second-degree murder and is set to be sentenced to life imprisonment. Sukhraj Cheema-Singh expressed remorse for his actions, apologizing to his family for the pain he caused and pledging to transform himself during his sentence. He confessed in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Hamilton on September 26.
Initially facing a charge of first-degree murder, Cheema-Singh reached a plea agreement with the Crown for second-degree murder. Both the prosecution and defense recommended a 13-year period of parole ineligibility from the time of his arrest, a judgment endorsed as appropriate by Justice Paul Sweeny.
Justice Sweeny urged Cheema-Singh to utilize his time in custody to address his mental health challenges and strive to become a better individual, honoring his commitment to his family.
Details of the Crossbow Attack
On February 10, 2024, Cheema-Singh ambushed his father outside his residence with a rented SUV and shot him twice with a crossbow before fleeing the scene. Two days later, upon his arrest, he admitted to the crime and revealed his intention to end his own life, although he only had two arrows at the time.
Cheema-Singh claimed that he confronted his father regarding alleged “abuse” and lifestyle choices inconsistent with their Sikh beliefs, particularly his father’s alcohol consumption.
The victim, Kuldip Singh, aged 56 and employed as a welder, succumbed to his injuries an hour after the attack.
Crown’s Allegations of Delusional Behavior
The Crown attorney, Eric Taylor, outlined Cheema-Singh’s plea, citing statements from his sister about the strained relationship between her brother and father, with past threats of self-harm. Although no evidence of the alleged abuse was presented, Taylor suggested that Cheema-Singh might have argued provocation or a lack of criminal responsibility due to potential delusions.
Defense lawyer G.J. Partington emphasized Cheema-Singh’s lack of criminal history prior to the incident and his pursuit of an engineering degree at McMaster University. Partington highlighted the defendant’s upbringing marked by physical and emotional abuse, attributing it to his father’s excessive drinking.
To defy his father’s behaviors, Cheema-Singh embraced Sikhism fervently, according to Partington, who noted that his father’s actions, such as alcohol consumption and cutting his hair, clashed with his son’s beliefs.
No victim impact statements were provided in court. Taylor acknowledged the emotional strain on the Cheema-Singh family, observing their presence via video call during the proceedings.
If you require mental health assistance following this account, seek support through resources available in your province or territory.