An Indo-Canadian filmmaker is dead after a fight with a neighbor turned into a deadly assault. Manbir “Mani” Amar, who was known for his controversial films like Footsteps into Gangland and A Warrior’s Religion, died as a result of a fight with a neighbor. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) have taken over the investigation after an altercation between Amar and his Surrey neighbours which resulted in the death of the 40-year old filmmaker. On his film website, Amar describes himself as a film director, poet, artist, and an aspiring actor.

By PD Raj – Senior Writer DESIBUZZCanada

SURREY – An Indo-Canadian filmmaker is dead after a fight with a neighbor turned into a deadly assault.

Manbir “Mani” Amar, who was known for his controversial films like Footsteps into Gangland and A Warrior’s Religion, died as a result of a fight with a neighbor.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) have taken over the investigation after an altercation between Amar and his Surrey neighbours which resulted in the death of the 40-year old filmmaker.

IHIT said they are identifying the victim as Manbir “Mani” Amar in hopes of advancing their investigation.

“This was an isolated incident between two neighbours,” says Sergeant Timothy Pierotti of IHIT. “Tragically this situation escalated to a point where a life was taken.”

On August 31, Surrey RCMP said they responded to a report of a physical altercation between two neighbours in the 14100-block of 61 Avenue, Surrey. Officers and Emergency Health Services (EHS) personnel attended and provided first aid, but sadly, despite best efforts, the victim’s condition deteriorated rapidly and he succumbed to his injuries on scene. 

A suspect was located on scene by Surrey RCMP and was arrested for murder. IHIT has taken conduct of the investigation and is working closely in partnership with the Surrey RCMP, BC Coroners Service and the Integrated Forensic Identification Section (IFIS).

At this time, no charges have been laid and the suspect remains in custody.

IHIT is asking any witnesses to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. 

On his film website, Mani Amar describes himself as a film director, poet, artist, and an aspiring actor. “From a very young age, he was obsessed with films. Often watching the same film many times, he would memorize specific parts of the movie and act them out for friends and family. Mani became a natural for impromptu skits or just bursts of much needed comedic relief. Teachers often remember him for his energy and ability to make the classroom a fun environment. His strong beliefs in activism for environment & sustainability, poverty abolishment, and human rights made him pursue a film directing career. 

“Mani wanted to create documentaries and films that evoke audiences’ emotions and create public awareness. In 2006, preproduction and filming began on “A Warrior’s Religion,” a poetic documentary on the epidemic issue of South Asian Gang Violence in the Greater Vancouver Area. Also, Mani is published in national poetic anthologies and is an award-winning graphics artist,” said the biographical note on his website.