Hamilton Police executed a search warrant overnight Thursday morning, as they continue to search for 17-year-old Mackale Lavoie.
Lavoie is the accused in the shooting death of 26-year-old Belinda Sarkodie. Sarkodie was struck and killed when a gunman opened fire at approximately 5:25 p.m. on Friday (July 11) at Hamilton’s busy King and James intersection.
Police say Sarkodie was “an innocent bystander” and state they believe the suspect was trying to kill three other individuals.
On Sunday (July 13), Hamilton Police obtained a court order permitting the identification of the suspect, because of the threat he continues to pose to the community.
Police have executed multiple search warrants since that time, but have not yet found the accused.
On Sunday, Hamilton Police’s tactical unit executed a search warrant on Wellington Street North.
Today’s overnight search warrant execution occurred on Mary Street North.
Hamilton Police are searching for 17-year-old Mackale Lavoie, who is charged with second-degree murder. A court order permits the publication of this photo during the police search to find and arrest him.
Information from Neighbours and the Residents Who Observed the Overnight Search
Multiple neighbours confirm Hamilton Police tactical units led the execution of the search warrant.
A person who resides at the residence that Hamilton Police searched Wednesday night stated they knew the accused, and in language that cannot be published in this publication, expressed their anger and disappointment regarding Lavoie.
They, and their relatives, stated they want nothing to do with the accused as they wanted to return to their home.
They were cooperating with police as multiple detectives and forensic officers were inside searching their entire residence.
The person, and their relatives, are being granted anonymity due to the fact the suspect is considered armed and dangerous.
When the search was completed, Hamilton Police detectives confirmed they were not seizing anything from the home and allowed the residents to return.
Police moved and opened everything within the house.
Search for Lavoie Continues
Over the weekend, and throughout the week, Hamilton Chief of Police Frank Bergen has stated every resource available to Hamilton Police is involved in the effort to find and apprehend Lavoie.
“Investigators are actively looking for Mackale, and encourage him to reach out to his lawyer and make arrangements to turn himself in,” Detective Sergeant John Obrovac stated at a Monday media briefing.
“I would also like to remind anyone who may be trying to assist him in evading police, that they too could be held criminally responsible as accessories after the fact.”
Hamilton Police state that if you see Lavoie, or know about his whereabouts, call police immediately at 905-546-4925 or call 9-1-1.
Police are expected to provide an update after 7:00 a.m. on Thursday.
Production Details
v. 1.1.0
Published: July 17, 2025
Last updated: July 17, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman
Update Record
v. 1.0.0 original version
V. 1.1.0 time of warrant being served differs between witnesses. Opening paragraph updated.
Licensing Note:
COPYRIGHT ALL RIGHTS RESERVED When the accused is arrested, the Youth Criminal Justice Act requires the removal of the identity of the 17-year-old accused. TPR's default Creative Commons licensing dues not apply to this story due to the requirements of law.