UPDATE — June 27, 2019: The death of 78-year-old South Vancouver businessman John Leslie McIver is being investigated as a homicide, say Vancouver police. McIver's body was discovered shortly after 8:30 a.m. PT. on June 26, 2019.

EARLIER:

The founder of a well-known appliances business in South Vancouver was found dead inside the store Wednesday morning under what police are calling suspicious circumstances.

Police say they arrived at McIver's Appliance Sales and Service near Ontario Street and East 69 Avenue shortly before 8:30 a.m. PT. and discovered the body of John Leslie McIver, 78.

McIver, who also went by Jack, founded the business in 1964.

Police were called to McIver’s Appliance Sales and Service, near Ontario Street and East 69th Avenue, shortly before 8:30 a.m. on June 26. John Leslie McIver, 78, was pronounced dead at the scene. (Maggie MacPherson/CBC)

By late afternoon, investigators appeared to be just getting started at the scene, a quiet light industrial strip mall near Marine Drive. Police tape cordoned off an area in front of the appliance store and a pickup truck marked with McIver Appliance branding was parked oddly in front of the business.

Detectives in suits spoke with forensics investigators outside the store, and the forensics team could be seen suiting up in white Tyvek coveralls before entering the store.

A forensic investigator puts on what police sometimes refer to as a 'bunny suit' in order to prevent the introduction of contaminants into the crime scene. (Rafferty Baker/CBC)

A coroner showed up at the scene around 6 p.m. on Wednesday.

Police are still investigating. No arrests have been made.

Customers shocked by news

Longtime customer Sharen Lee stopped by the South Vancouver appliance store on Thursday, after McIver missed an appointment that morning to repair her fridge.

"He was always on time. He'd tell you when he's coming and he's there. So, today was quite a shock when I kept calling and waiting, and he just didn't show up," Lee said.

Sharen Lee, who bought four appliances from the store over the years, said John McIver was a helpful and knowledgeable person. (Tristan Le Rudulier/CBC)

Lee said she has been buying appliances from McIver's shop for years because of his extensive knowledge.

"He knew his stuff. Lots of information. Very friendly guy," she said. "I'm just in shock."