Reena Virk’s killer arrested for breach of parole conditions, Surrey police say

Kerry Sim, previously known as Kelly Ellard, has been taken into custody by the Surrey Police Service for violating her parole conditions. Sim, who was convicted of the murder of Reena Virk in 1997, was arrested in South Surrey on an outstanding Canada-wide warrant.

Last year, the parole board granted Sim an extension of her day parole, citing her struggles as a 41-year-old single parent dealing with the challenges of raising children, the high cost of living, and the consequences of her past actions. In 1997, Sim, along with Warren Glowatski, was involved in the brutal killing of 14-year-old Reena Virk in Victoria, British Columbia. The tragic incident, which involved a savage beating and drowning of the young girl, has since been the subject of a Hulu true-crime series called “Under the Bridge.”

Correctional Service Canada (CSC) has expressed sympathy for the family and friends of Reena Virk, acknowledging the ongoing impact of Sim’s crimes on the community. CSC spokesperson Lucinda Fraser stated that immediate action is taken if an offender fails to comply with their conditions, which could include returning them to custody. While the specifics of the parole breach were not disclosed by authorities, it was noted that measures have been taken regarding Sim’s case.

Sim, who was living in a community-based residential facility in the Lower Mainland, has been struggling with financial constraints and limited childcare options. She gave birth to her first child while in prison and a second child while on day parole. Despite being released on day parole in 2018, Sim has faced setbacks, including allegations of domestic violence and drug use, leading to her recent arrest for a deterioration in behavior.

It remains unclear whether Sim is currently in custody following her arrest this week. The parole board’s decision in 2024 outlined specific conditions for her release, including abstaining from alcohol and drugs and avoiding contact with members of Virk’s family. The case serves as a reminder of the tragic events that transpired in 1997 and the ongoing repercussions for all those involved.