Sikh Temple Cook Kidnapped, Murdered in Apparent Case of Mistaken Identity

Avtar Singh, 57, was found dead in Napa County after being taken from his workplace in Tracy, California.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 57-year-old Sikh man named Avtar Singh, who had been the head cook at a temple in Tracy, California for 23 years, was kidnapped from the temple and later found dead in Napa County. Police believe Singh was not the intended target and was mistakenly taken in what appears to have been a case of mistaken identity.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the vulnerability of minority communities and the need for greater security measures to protect religious institutions and their staff. It also raises concerns about the prevalence of violent crime and the challenges law enforcement faces in investigating cases of mistaken identity.

The details

According to surveillance footage, three people dressed in dark clothing forced Singh into a white SUV in the temple parking lot on February 17. His body was found by a fisherman near Lake Berryessa in Napa County on February 25. The SUV was later located near where Singh's body was discovered. Authorities have not revealed the cause of death, but an autopsy has been completed.

  • Singh was reported missing on February 17.
  • Singh's body was found on February 25.

The players

Avtar Singh

A 57-year-old Sikh man who had been the head cook at Gurdwara Gur Nanak Parkash temple in Tracy, California for 23 years.

Gurdwara Gur Nanak Parkash

The Sikh temple in Tracy, California where Avtar Singh worked as the head cook.

San Joaquin Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating Singh's kidnapping and death.

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What they’re saying

“We believe a different individual was a target and that Mr. Singh was mistakenly taken.”

— Heather Brent, Public Information Officer, San Joaquin Sheriff's Office (KCRA)

What’s next

The San Joaquin Sheriff's Office has not released any further details about the investigation, but they have stated that it is ongoing. The cause of Avtar Singh's death has not been publicly revealed.

The takeaway

This tragic case of mistaken identity highlights the need for greater security and protection for religious institutions and their staff, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces in investigating complex crimes involving vulnerable communities.