Authorities have recognized the suspect of a brazen taking pictures that killed one lady and injured one man in downtown Hamilton final week.
In a information launch issued Sunday, police mentioned an arrest warrant has been issued for 17-year-old Mackale Lavoie. He’s wished for second-degree homicide and two counts of tried homicide.
At roughly 5:25 p.m. on July 11, police allege that Lavoie encountered a gaggle of three folks within the downtown core who have been the supposed targets of a taking pictures.
“The male suspect opened hearth, placing one of many people,” police mentioned. “As he continued to shoot at a second particular person, an harmless bystander—26-year-old Belinda Sarkodie—was fatally struck.”
Officers described the preliminary scene at King Avenue East and James Avenue North as “chaotic and distressing.”
Police say one white male was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening accidents from a gunshot wound. A second sufferer – Belinda Sarkodie – was additionally positioned close by with extra extreme accidents.
“Regardless of life-saving efforts, she was tragically pronounced deceased on the scene,” police mentioned.
In a press convention held on Saturday, Det. Sgt. John Obrovac advised reporters that Sarkodie had not too long ago immigrated to Canada from Ghana in 2024 and was residing and dealing within the Hamilton space.
“Belinda was an harmless bystander, merely going about her day,” he defined. “On the time of the incident, she was spending time with a good friend within the downtown core.”
Police have launched images of 26-year-old Belinda Sarkodie. (Hamilton Police)
Investigators say Sarkodie has a brother who lives in Manitoba, however no different rapid household within the province. Her next-of-kin again in Ghana have been notified of her loss of life.
“Right now, we imagine the suspect could have identified the male sufferer and focused him, though the motive has not but been decided,” Obrovac added. “There is no such thing as a data to counsel that the suspect and Belinda Sarkodie have been identified to one another, or that she was focused.”
Police at the moment are on the hunt for 17-year-old Mackale Lavoie who stays at-large.
“Members of the general public are urged to not method him,” authorities warned. “In case you see Mackale Lavoie or know of his whereabouts, please contact Hamilton Police Service instantly.”
