Father of Three Killed in Mistaken Identity Kidnapping

Avtar Singh, 57, was abducted in broad daylight and found dead days later in a case of tragic mistaken identity

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Avtar Singh, a 57-year-old father of three, was kidnapped in broad daylight outside a Sikh temple in Tracy, California last week. His body was found two days later, and police say he was not the intended target of the attack. Singh had recently become a father to triplets and was known for his kind and hardworking nature at the temple where he worked as a cook.

Why it matters

This shocking case highlights the devastating impact of mistaken identity crimes, which can have tragic consequences for innocent victims and their families. It also raises concerns about public safety and the need for improved security measures, especially in places of worship.

The details

Surveillance footage showed three suspects abducting Singh outside the gurdwara (Sikh temple) where he worked as a cook. His wife reported him missing when she returned home from work to find their three young children abandoned. Singh's body was discovered two days later near Lake Berryessa, about a two-hour drive from the abduction site. Police say Singh was not the intended target of the attack, but they are still investigating the motive.

  • On February 21, 2026, Singh was kidnapped around 2:30 pm outside the gurdwara in Tracy, California.
  • Singh's wife reported him missing around 9 pm on February 21 after finding their children abandoned at home.
  • On February 23, 2026, Singh's body was found near Lake Berryessa.

The players

Avtar Singh

A 57-year-old father of three who worked as a cook at the Sikh temple (gurdwara) in Tracy, California.

Tracy Gurdwara Sahib

The Sikh temple where Avtar Singh worked as a cook for 23 years.

Sheriff Patrick Withrow

The sheriff investigating Avtar Singh's kidnapping and murder, who stated it was not a random act and the victim was targeted by mistake.

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What they’re saying

“The kids were alone. God's blessing. They were safe, but they were alone.”

— Deep Singh, Colleague at the Sikh temple (KCRA)

“He was very sincere and hard working. For 23 years, his main role was the head cook at our gurudwara, at the temple, but he was not only a cook, he was a multi-tasking person.”

— Deep Singh, Colleague at the Sikh temple (KCRA)

“When they got here, it was a big gathering. It was a big celebration. He was happy, mom was happy, and the community was happy. We're not gonna be able to repair her loss.”

— Deep Singh, Colleague at the Sikh temple (KCRA)

What’s next

The sheriff's office says detectives are working tirelessly to investigate the case and identify those responsible for Singh's murder.

The takeaway

This tragic case of mistaken identity highlights the devastating impact such crimes can have on innocent victims and their families. It underscores the need for improved security measures, especially in places of worship, and a deeper understanding of the human toll of these senseless acts.