Hamilton Police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred inside Jackson Square on Friday afternoon, resulting in the death of a 16-year-old boy.
Superintendent Marty Schulenberg said officers responded to reports of shots fired inside the mall at approximately 5:10 p.m. The victim was located with gunshot wounds inside the Wireless+ store and was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.
Police are searching for two suspects described as white males between 19 and 20 years of age. One individual was wearing a grey tracksuit, while the second was wearing a blue tracksuit. The suspects were last seen fleeing east on foot from the doors of 110 King Street West. Schulenberg stated that both individuals are believed to be armed, noting that at least one weapon involved was a “long arm” firearm.
Schulenberg stated that investigators have determined there was an altercation between the victim and the two suspects inside the mall that led to the shooting. He described it as a “targeted shooting.”
“This is a brazen shooting that occurred inside a mall, and we are obviously very concerned about this,” Schulenberg said. He added that it is concerning the shooting “occurred in broad daylight inside the mall.”
He said there remains a risk to the broader public until the suspects are arrested and advised people to immediately call 911 if they spot the suspects or become aware of their location.
The Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation, with Staff Sergeant Rob Di Ianni serving as the case manager.
Police tape remained visible inside the mall, including this garbage receptacle. Credit: Joey Coleman
Mayor Andrea Horwath issued a statement describing the “senseless shooting” as a “horrifying act of violence,” stating “my thoughts are with the victim and their loved ones.”
She called for stronger action to remove illegal firearms from the community and acknowledged the traumatic experience of those asked to shelter in place during the police search.
Hamilton Centre Member of Parliament Aslam Rana’s statement called the tragedy “completely unacceptable,” adding “my thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy.” City Manager Marnie Cluckie’s office issued a statement expressing the City’s condolences and stated “we are grateful to first responders for their quick action” and “the safety and wellbeing of our community remains our priority.”
The mall remained closed for several hours as the forensic identification unit processed the scene. Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam or security footage from the area to contact the Homicide Unit at 905-546-3865 or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 905-522-TIPS (8477).
Full Audio of Hamilton Police On-Scene Press Conference
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v. 1.0.0
Published: April 25, 2026
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Author: Joey Coleman
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