Jaspreet Singh Uppal, a 32-year-old Sikh man from Monroe, Ohio, tragically died on May 21, 2018, after sustaining injuries from a gunshot wound on May 12, 2018. He was shot by 20-year-old Broderick Malik Jones Roberts while sitting in his vehicle. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Chestnut Avenue in Hamilton, Ohio.
Roberts was initially indicted on charges of aggravated robbery, felonious assault, and possessing weapons under disability. Following Singh's death, Butler County Prosecutor Michael Gmoser announced that he would seek a murder charge against Roberts. Roberts' attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf, but a murder indictment was expected.
The Sikh Coalition, an advocacy group, stated that there was no immediate evidence to suggest that bias was involved in the shooting. They have been in contact with authorities in Cincinnati and continue to monitor the case. Roberts has a criminal history, having been sent to prison in 2016 after pleading guilty to trespass, unlawful restraint, and assault.
Jaspreet Singh was a devoted father and husband, leaving behind four young children. He had been living in the United States for about eight years and was well-liked within the Sikh community. He was active at the Guru Nanak Society in the area and recently worked as a truck driver.
Roberts was arraigned in Hamilton Municipal Court on a single charge of felonious assault, with his bond set at $125,000. The bond was later increased to $1 million by Judge Jennifer McElfresh. Roberts remains in custody, and his case continues to be monitored by the authorities.
It is a senseless tragedy that has deeply affected the community and left a void in the lives of those who knew and loved Jaspreet Singh.
