Two individuals have been charged with first-degree murder in connection to the death of Masood Masjoody, a 45-year-old Burnaby man who was reported missing in early February. Mehdi Ahmadzadeh Razavi, 48, of Maple Ridge, and Arezou Soltani, 45, of North Vancouver, were arrested on Friday and remain in custody. The BC Prosecution Service has approved one count of first-degree murder each against Razavi and Soltani.
Masjoody was reported missing by concerned neighbours in early February, prompting an investigation by Burnaby RCMP. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) took over the case, determining that Masjoody's disappearance was suspicious and involved criminality. After weeks of investigation, Masjoody's remains were discovered in Mission, B. C., on March 6.
Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT stated that the victim and the two accused were known to each other, and the incident is believed to be targeted. While the motive remains under investigation, police are exploring all possibilities, including whether Masjoody's activism related to events in Iran played a role. Masjoody was known for his criticism of the Iranian regime and had previously worked as a math instructor at Simon Fraser University (SFU). He had also been involved in legal disputes, including a lawsuit against SFU and social media company X.
The investigation continues as authorities gather more information. Razavi and Soltani are scheduled to appear in court on Monday. IHIT is asking anyone with information to come forward, as they believe some individuals may have important details that have not yet been shared.
