Hamilton Police have issued an arrest warrant for a 16-year-old male in connection with a daytime shooting.
On July 10, 2024, at approximately 4:50 p.m., police received a 911 call reporting a shooting in the area of Jackson St. E and Walnut St. in the downtown core. Before police arrived, all individuals involved in the shooting had fled the scene. Officers located evidence confirming the shooting upon arrival.
The investigation revealed that a verbal altercation between two groups of males escalated to gunfire. Numerous phone calls indicated that the suspects fled towards an apartment building at 115 Main St. E. Witnesses directed police to a unit within the building. Officers contained the apartment, and the Emergency Response Unit was called. A firearm was also recovered.
Investigators reviewed surveillance footage and spoke to witnesses, which led to the identification of the 16-year-old shooter.
He is charged with:
- Discharge with Intent
- Reckless Discharge
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of a Loaded Prohibited Firearm
- Assault with a Weapon
- Obstruction of Justice
- Fail to Comply with Release Order x2
The recent shooting follows a disturbing trend in shootings and youth violence in Hamilton. There is a 162 per cent increase in shootings over this time last year and a 12.7 per cent increase in youth involved in violent crimes compared to the five-year average. The top three youth violent crimes were assault, utter threats and assault with a weapon.
In this case, the youth cannot be identified because of his age. Detectives are encouraging him to speak with counsel and turn himself in.
If you have any information, please contact the Shooting Response Team at 905-546-4883 or email them at [email protected]. To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips at www.crimestoppershamilton.com.