Last Friday afternoon, a 16-year-old named Nabil Askafe received a call from a friend and informed his mother that he was heading out. Despite his mother’s suggestion to eat before leaving, he declined, promising to return soon. Unfortunately, this was the last time she saw him.
Tragically, Askafe was shot at Jackson Square mall in downtown Hamilton on April 24, less than an hour after he left home. Police revealed that a minor altercation escalated into a fatal confrontation, resulting in Askafe’s untimely death. A 14-year-old boy turned himself in and was charged with second-degree murder.
In an interview translated from Arabic, Askafe’s mother, Hala Tatish, described her son as a loving and humorous individual who had aspirations to travel to Germany and Dubai and pursue a career in law enforcement. As a Grade 11 student at Westdale Secondary School, he was eager to grow older and embrace life’s experiences.
Tatish and her husband, who immigrated to Canada from Syria in 2016, sought safety and a better future for their children, including Askafe and his siblings. The family is devastated by the loss, with Tatish expressing fear and reluctance to send her other children to school amidst the tragedy.
As the community mourns Askafe’s death, his father, Mazen Askafe, emphasized the need for increased safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Concerns were raised about the missing firearm used in the incident, with Tatish highlighting the potential danger it poses.
Reflecting on her son’s character, Tatish believes that Askafe’s only fault was his willingness to help others. The family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the community, with numerous individuals offering condolences and assistance.
At a community vigil held in Askafe’s honor, attendees paid tribute to his memory and called for action to ensure the safety of all children in Hamilton. The family expressed gratitude for the support received and the opportunity to remember Askafe’s life.
As the investigation continues, the family remains hopeful that justice will be served and measures will be taken to prevent similar tragedies. The impact of Askafe’s passing has resonated deeply within the community, prompting reflections on the need for a safer environment for all residents, especially the youth.