In a violent early morning incident in downtown Hamilton, police reported that more than 80 shots were fired, resulting in injuries to three individuals. The shooting took place around 1 a.m. on Saturday, in the vicinity of Bowen Street and Jackson Street East.
According to Inspector Ben Thibodeau, law enforcement officials responded promptly to the scene where they found three people suffering from gunshot wounds. The injuries varied from non-life threatening to one critical case. The critically injured victim has since undergone surgery and is now reported to be in stable condition.
Investigators revealed that multiple firearms, including handguns and assault rifles, were employed during the shooting. Authorities recovered over 80 cartridge casings of various calibers from the scene, highlighting the extreme level of violence involved. Thibodeau described the incident as "extremely dangerous for public safety," emphasizing the risks posed to individuals nearby, even though the shooting appeared to be targeted.
As of now, there is no immediate suspect description available. However, police indicated that “several people were involved” based on the number of shots discharged during the incident. Reports suggest that at least one of the victims was leaving a bar located at the intersection of John and Jackson streets when the shooting erupted. Notably, there is currently no evidence linking any activity inside the bar to the violence that took place outside. Police have also recovered a weapon from one of the victims.
Witnesses were present at the scene, with several individuals around during the time of the shooting. However, police have expressed frustration that none of these witnesses have stepped forward to provide information. Thibodeau stated, “At this point, none of these people have come forward … they’re uncooperative,” and made an appeal for these witnesses to reach out, either directly or anonymously via Crime Stoppers, especially if they feel more comfortable doing so.
This area has a history of violence, with police noting that at least two establishments in the vicinity have been linked to illegal operations. Such previous incidents underline the ongoing safety concerns in downtown Hamilton as authorities work to address the implications of this latest outbreak of gun violence.
