Hamilton police have apprehended and formally accused a teenager in connection with a shooting incident at a downtown bus stop that led to the tragic death of innocent bystander Belinda Sarkodie. Chief Frank Bergen, speaking at a news conference, expressed his dismay over the senseless act that claimed the life of the 26-year-old Ghanaian national. The 17-year-old suspect surrendered to authorities and is facing charges of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder.
Detective Sergeant John Obrovac stated that the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, as other individuals involved have not cooperated with the police investigation. Due to the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the identity of the teenager cannot be disclosed. Furthermore, details regarding his whereabouts during the four-month period leading up to his arrest have not been revealed.
The incident occurred on July 11 at a bustling intersection in the city, close to a street festival attended by thousands of people. The assailant approached a group on a scooter, injuring one person before tragically striking Sarkodie. The victim, who had immigrated from Ghana to seek refuge in Canada in 2024 as a member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, was remembered fondly by her girlfriend Grace Nasiru and family.
Nasiru expressed relief that the suspect turned himself in but questioned the delay in his surrender and who may have assisted him during his time on the run. Obrovac emphasized that the police’s relentless efforts led to the arrest and credited the collective support within the force for the successful outcome. The bereaved family and friends of Sarkodie are seeking justice and closure following the heartbreaking loss.
The tragic incident involving Sarkodie is not an isolated case, as highlighted by Bergen, who referenced the death of international student Harsimrat Randhawa in a separate shooting earlier this year. Bergen urged families to intervene and deter youth from engaging in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community vigilance to prevent such senseless violence.