Community in Shock After 18-Year-Old Ekampreet Sahni Singh Fatally Shot in Newcastle Car Park; Arrest Made

NEWCASTLE, NSW — A devastating tragedy has shaken the community of Newcastle following the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Ekampreet Sahni Singh late Wednesday night, April 23, 2025. The young man, remembered by loved ones as a “good bloke” and a “lovely kid,” was gunned down in a violent altercation in the Bar Beach car park. Authorities have since made an arrest in connection with the incident.

A Night of Violence

Emergency services were called to the Bar Beach car park around 11:40 p.m. following reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they discovered Mr. Singh suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Witnesses told police that a white SUV arrived during an ongoing dispute among a group of people. A man reportedly stepped out of the vehicle, opened fire, and then fled the scene in the SUV. Police later found the vehicle abandoned and set on fire in the nearby suburb of Tingira Heights shortly before midnight.

Arrest Made

On Friday morning, April 25, a 22-year-old man turned himself in at Newcastle Police Station. He was arrested and is expected to be charged with murder. Police confirmed the man is assisting with inquiries, and a formal investigation has been launched under Strike Force Bolwarra, led by Newcastle detectives in coordination with the Homicide Squad.

Authorities continue to gather forensic evidence and review surveillance footage. They are also urging anyone with information to come forward.

A Life Remembered

Ekampreet Sahni Singh, who was known for his warm spirit and hard-working nature, is being mourned by his family and the broader community. His father, Amrinder Singh Sahni, spoke with heartbreak and pride about his son’s life, describing him as a charming young man who loved working on cars and had dreams of building a future in automotive mechanics.

Family friend Iqbal Singh expressed the collective sorrow felt by the community, saying, “It’s not just a tragic loss for the parents of Ekampreet, it’s a big loss for the entire community. He was such a nice kid… very hard working.”

Another family friend, Vikram Sharma, added, “We couldn’t believe what happened. That shouldn’t happen to anyone. It’s very tragic. His face is still in front of my eyes. It’s a very hard time for the family.”

Community Support and Ongoing Investigation

Support has been pouring in for the Singh family, with community members offering condolences and planning a candlelight vigil at Bar Beach in remembrance of the young man. Grief counselors have been made available to those impacted by the tragedy.

Newcastle police are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or who has mobile phone or dashcam footage from the area to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit information online at crimestoppers.com.au. All information will be treated confidentially.

As the investigation continues, the community remains united in mourning the loss of a promising young life taken far too soon.

If you have any information that could assist the investigation, please contact Crime Stoppers.