The BC RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Joshua Freeman, who is a person of interest in the shooting death of Joel Zimbalatti, which occurred in Sparwood on October 11, 2023.

Police are taking the step of releasing Mr. Freeman’s name and photograph as conventional avenues of trying to locate him have been exhausted.

On October 11, 2023, at 3:16 p.m., Elk Valley RCMP received a report of a shooting at a trailer located in the 6200 block of Lower Elk Valley Road, Sparwood.

The initial investigation determined that, in addition to a male who was arrested at the scene, a second male, who goes by the alias Slim, was also present when the shooting occurred and immediately departed the scene prior to police arrival.

Through a media release, disseminated on October 25, 2023, numerous tips were received from the public which helped in identifying Slim as one, Joshua Freeman, and investigators are now looking to speak with Mr. Freeman.

“Mr. Freeman is believed to be one of the last people to see Mr. Zimbalatti alive, before he was shot and it is imperative that investigators speak with Mr. Freeman regarding this investigation,’ said S/Sgt. Jason Smart, NCO i/c, SED MCU.

Mr. Freeman was last seen in the Kimberley area on the day after the shooting, but is known to have ties to the Okanagan area of B.C.

“If Mr. Freeman sees or hears this call for information, we ask him to contact the police of jurisdiction,” said S/Sgt. Smart.

Should you encounter Mr. Freeman please contact your local police. Should you have information regarding Mr. Freeman please call the BC RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit information line at 1-877-987-8477.

The BC RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit would also like to take this opportunity to thank the public for the many tips and their assistance in support of this investigation.

Photo submitted by BC RCMP

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