Hamilton Police have confirmed the surrender of a 17-year-old male suspect wanted in connection with the tragic shooting death of Belinda Sarkodie Agyemang, a 26-year-old immigrant from Ghana. The suspect turned himself in on November 18, 2025, after being on the run since the July 11 incident that claimed Sarkodie's life.
Four-Month Manhunt Ends
Hamilton Police Chief Frank Bergen described an intensive four-month investigation where officers maintained constant pressure on the suspect. "He had to have felt our breath," Bergen stated, emphasizing the relentless pursuit that ultimately led to the teenager's surrender. The chief characterized the alleged shooter as an "entitled young punk" who brought a gun into a crowded afternoon setting to settle a dispute.
The 17-year-old now faces charges of second-degree murder and attempted murder for the shooting that occurred outside Jackson Square in downtown Hamilton. Under Canadian youth justice laws, the identity of the accused cannot be publicly disclosed.
Victim Remembered for Kind Spirit
Belinda Sarkodie Agyemang was described by family and friends as a vibrant young woman known for her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit. She had come to Canada from Ghana and was building a new life when tragedy struck. On July 11, 2025, while spending time with a friend in the downtown core, she was struck by a stray bullet intended for someone else.
A GoFundMe campaign established for her family has raised approximately $12,000, describing Belinda as "dearly loved by her mother, siblings Richard and Linda, and her late father, James Sarkodie." The family has suffered what police called an "unimaginable loss."
Pattern of Stray Bullet Violence
This case marks the second high-profile stray bullet murder in Hamilton this year. In April, 21-year-old international student Harsimrat Randhawa, who had immigrated from India in 2023, was killed by a stray bullet while waiting at a bus stop near Mohawk College. Three suspects have been charged in that separate case.
Detective-Sergeant John Obrovac expressed that the Hamilton police force has not had a day pass without thinking about Belinda and her family. The incident has angered the entire Hamilton community, raising concerns about public safety and gun violence involving youth.
While the legal process moves forward, the community continues to mourn the loss of a young woman whose Canadian dream ended in what Chief Bergen called a "senseless act of violence." The case highlights ongoing challenges with youth gun violence and the tragic consequences that extend far beyond intended targets.
