A tragic incident unfolded in downtown Hamilton on Friday afternoon, where a shooting resulted in the death of a woman and left a man hospitalized. The event took place around 5:30 p.m. in the vicinity of King Street, specifically between James Street and MacNab Street, according to reports from Hamilton Police.
Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, where they pronounced the woman dead. Meanwhile, a male victim was transported to a local hospital with injuries from a gunshot wound; authorities later stated that his condition was stable and that his injuries were non-life-threatening.
Following the shooting, the suspect fled the area and has not yet been apprehended. In a press release issued on Friday evening, Hamilton Police confirmed that they were actively working on the case. "A large police presence will remain in place for several hours as officers secure the scene, collect evidence, and work to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident," police officials stated.
The investigation is currently considered active and in its early stages, with members of the Emergency Response Unit engaged in clearing Jackson Square as part of the ongoing inquiry. Authorities are focused on gathering information that might help them identify the suspect and understand the intricacies of the event.
As a result of the ongoing investigation, pedestrian and vehicle access to the affected area has been restricted, with several roads closed to facilitate police operations. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid the vicinity until further notice.
Hamilton Police are urging anyone who was in the area between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to come forward if they witnessed the shooting or have any information relevant to the investigation. The police made it clear that "surveillance footage, dash camera video, and eyewitness accounts could play a vital role in advancing the investigation." They are soliciting the public's assistance in gathering vital evidence that may lead to the capture of the suspect.
Currently, no additional details regarding the identity of the victims, the suspect, or the motive for the shooting have been disclosed. The police continue to prioritize public safety while they gather evidence and work through this distressing event, which has undoubtedly sent shockwaves through the local community.
As investigations develop, updates from Hamilton Police will be crucial to informing the public about any further findings or developments in the case. The local community remains on alert as authorities continue their efforts to resolve this serious incident and ensure safety in the area.