Police are searching for a 14-year-old boy in connection with the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old inside a downtown Hamilton mall on Friday afternoon. The victim has been identified as Nabil Askafe, who died from his injuries after being shot at Jackson Square shortly after 5 p.m. following an altercation.
Detective Robert Di Ianni described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy that deeply impacts the family, friends, and the entire Hamilton community. He expressed condolences to those grieving the loss. The victim lived in Hamilton, and his family, including a younger son, recently immigrated from Syria. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Suspect Cannot Be Named Yet
Di Ianni stated that a judicial order is awaiting authorization to release the name and photo of the teen suspect. Efforts are ongoing to locate and arrest him. The suspect is facing a second-degree murder charge. Police are urging him to contact investigators or seek legal counsel and turn himself in.
Two males were seen fleeing the mall eastbound toward James Street. One was wearing a grey tracksuit, and the other a blue tracksuit. Only one was armed with a firearm described as longer than a handgun but concealed by the suspect. Investigators are also working to identify the individual who was with the suspect and encourage him to come forward.
Unknown if Victim and Suspects Knew Each Other
Di Ianni said the investigation has not yet determined whether the victim knew the shooter or the other suspect. Surveillance footage showed the victim walking along King Street from Hess Street when a small interaction occurred and continued into the mall. There was an altercation prior to the shooting, during which the suspect brandished a firearm and shot Nabil.
After being shot, the victim managed to walk a short distance to a nearby cellphone store, where he collapsed. He was rushed to the hospital but later pronounced dead.
Investigators are appealing for anyone involved or who witnessed the incident to contact Detective Matt Drumm at (905) 546-3825 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
This incident follows a similar tragedy last July, when 26-year-old Belinda Sarkodie was struck and killed by a stray bullet while waiting for a bus near Jackson Square. In November, a 17-year-old suspect surrendered to police and was charged with second-degree murder.
