3 found guilty of first-degree murder in killing of Abbotsford seniors

Photos and flowers were set up outside court in Abbotsford ahead of the judge's verdict in the case of murdered couple Arnold and Joanne De Jong. (Michele Brunoro / CTV News)

Warning: This story contains graphic details.

Almost four years to the day Abbotsford, B.C., seniors Arnold and Joanne De Jong were found dead in their home, a judge has convicted three men in the chilling murders.

Abhijeet Singh, Khushveer Toor and Gurkaran Singh have been found guilty of first-degree murder for killing the De Jongs.

The couple, who were grandparents in their 70s, was found dead in their home on May 9, 2022. They had been tied up with rope, Arnold’s head had been wrapped in duct tape and Joanne’s throat had been slashed.

The defence had argued it was a robbery gone wrong. Crown said the motivation was financial pressure and greed.

Abhijeet Singh had an exterior home cleaning business, and he and Toor had done work at the De Jongs’ home.

The courtroom was packed for the verdict. In fact, so many family and friends of the victims were in attendance, three overflow courtrooms were opened to accommodate the crowd.

Large pictures of the De Jongs and flowers were set up by family outside the courthouse Friday morning.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.