Hamilton police have apprehended and formally accused a teenager in connection with a shooting incident that occurred near a downtown bus stop four months ago, resulting in the tragic death of Belinda Sarkodie, an innocent bystander. At a press briefing on Wednesday, Chief Frank Bergen expressed outrage over the senseless act, emphasizing the loss of a young life.
The 17-year-old suspect surrendered himself on Tuesday, as confirmed by Det. Sgt. John Obrovac, who disclosed that the individual faces charges of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder. Despite ongoing investigations, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, with little cooperation from other involved parties.
Due to legal constraints under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, authorities are prohibited from disclosing the teen’s identity or specific details. Obrovac refrained from commenting on the suspect’s whereabouts during the period when a warrant was issued for their arrest.
The fatal incident occurred on July 11 at a bustling city intersection, adjacent to a popular street festival attended by numerous individuals. The assailant, riding a scooter, approached a group, causing injuries to one person before fatally shooting Sarkodie, who was not the intended target.
Sarkodie, originally from Ghana, had sought sanctuary in Canada in 2024 as a member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and was employed at the Hamilton airport. Following the suspect’s surrender, her girlfriend, Grace Nasiru, expressed relief but questioned the delay in apprehension and potential accomplices aiding the fugitive.
Obrovac highlighted the collective efforts of law enforcement in locating the suspect, underscoring the commitment to justice. Nasiru lamented the tragic loss and the impact on Sarkodie’s family, stressing the need to address youth violence and the ease of access to firearms.
Chief Bergen referenced another incident earlier in the year involving the death of international student Harsimrat Randhawa, 21, who was fatally struck by a stray bullet while waiting at a bus stop on Hamilton Mountain. Family members were urged to intervene and prevent youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the community’s responsibility in ensuring public safety.