Mission, British Columbia – A man in Mission, British Columbia has been sentenced to life in prison for a brutal attack at a marijuana growing facility nearly four years ago. The incident, which occurred on Gunn Avenue in August 2020, resulted in the death of one person and the confinement and assault of four others. The guilty individual, Van Nguyen, had previously worked at the marijuana operation and resided on the property leading up to the tragic events.
According to B.C. Supreme Court documents, Nguyen set the residence on fire before fleeing the scene and disposing of his weapons. While the motive behind the attack was not specified in court proceedings, it was noted that Nguyen had stopped working at the property a month prior to the incident. Before this violent act, Nguyen had a minor criminal record with no history of violent crimes.
Nguyen, 63, was arrested in October 2020 and pleaded guilty in May 2023. His sentencing includes eligibility for parole in 12 years due to his age and health condition. The Honourable Justice Michael Tammen’s decision highlighted the aggravating factors, such as the violent nature of the killing, intentional arson, evidence of premeditation, and the confinement of victims.
As part of the sentencing, Nguyen is required to provide a DNA sample for a database, adhere to a lifetime ban on possessing weapons, and refrain from communicating with the surviving victims during his incarceration. Letters of support from Nguyen’s family were presented to the judge, suggesting a more complex and layered portrayal of the individual behind the violent incident. Genuine remorse expressed by Nguyen also played a role in the final sentencing decision.
The case serves as a tragic reminder of the consequences of violence and the lasting impact it can have on a community. Justice Tammen’s ruling underscores the severity of the crime while also considering factors such as remorse and past behavior. The community in Mission, British Columbia continues to navigate the aftermath of this harrowing event, seeking closure and justice for all those affected.