An 85-year-old man in Burnaby, British Columbia, has died after being struck by a stray bullet inside his home, prompting a homicide investigation.

Police were called after reports of gunfire in the area around 18th Avenue and Humphries Avenue. Investigators later determined that the elderly resident had been hit by a gunshot while inside his apartment.

The victim was identified as Chang Yong Cho. Authorities believe the shooting may have involved a stray bullet rather than the victim being deliberately targeted.

Investigators from the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team are examining the circumstances surrounding the shooting and are working to establish where the bullet came from.

Police are appealing to residents who may have witnessed suspicious activity or heard gunfire around the time of the incident. Investigators are also expected to review available surveillance footage and other evidence from the neighbourhood.

The incident has raised concerns among residents about the dangers of gun violence in residential communities, particularly when people who are not involved in a dispute can become unintended victims.

Authorities have not indicated that the victim was the intended target, and the investigation remains ongoing.