Investigators have released new surveillance camera footage revealing two men considered persons of interest in the slaying of 19-year-old aspiring actress Maple Batalia in September.
The clip, which runs only 12 seconds long, depicts two men walking through a doorway with their hands in their pockets.
No physical descriptions or contextual information was provided, but a time code suggests the video was captured just over an hour before Batalia was gunned down.
Sgt. Jennifer Pound says the men are not considered suspects in the Simon Fraser University student's death, but they may have information that will push the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team's case forward.
"We know there are people who may have information about [Batalia's] murder," Pound said in a release. "We ask that you think of Maple and her family and the loss they are, and will forever be facing."
Batalia, who friends say was a straight-A science student, was shot near the SFU Surrey campus shortly after 1 a.m. on Sept. 28.
Previously released footage showed a suspect vehicle, described as a white, late-model Dodge Charger with a sunroof, driving from the scene of the murder. That car has been seized by police.
Pound said there may be witnesses who are afraid to come forward, or who are unsure if their information will be helpful – but noted that it is a legal obligation to contact police to disclose relevant information.
IHIT can be contacted at 1-877-551-IHIT. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
