In September 2026, the Major Drugs and Gangs Unit (MDGU) began investigating allegations that stun guns were being sold at Tabby’s Variety, located at 419 King Street East.

On November 6, 2026, investigators executed a search warrant at the business and seized seven stun guns from behind the sales counter. The business owner was arrested without incident.

She has been charged with:

• Weapons Trafficking
• Possession of a Weapon for the Purpose of Trafficking

She was released on an undertaking.

Anyone with information about the unlawful sale or trafficking of prohibited weapons is asked to contact the Major Drugs and Gangs Unit at 905-546-3887.

A Honda Civic travelling southbound struck a 19-year-old woman who was on the roadway. She was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries. The male driver was not injured. The driver remained on scene and has been cooperating with investigators. 

The Hamilton Police Collision Reconstruction Unit has taken carriage of the investigation. Investigators are asking witnesses and anyone with dashcam or surveillance footage from the area at the time of the collision to contact police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Collision Reconstruction Office at 905-546-4753 or reconunit@hamiltonpolice.ca.

Hamilton Police continue to shut down illegal cannabis dispensaries in the City.

On October 29, 2026, members of the Division 20 High Enforcement Action Team (H.E.A.T) executed a search warrant at "My Legacy Cannabis" located at 1142 Barton Street East. This is the third illegal dispensary shut down by Hamilton Police in the past thirty days. 

A 24-year-old male from Hamilton was arrested inside the premises and charged with the following offences:  

• Possessing cannabis for the purpose of selling 
• Possession of illicit cannabis 
• Proceeds of crime under $5,000 
• Traffic contraband tobacco

 The following items were seized as a result of the search warrant:

• A large sum of Canadian currency. 
• 16.2 Kilograms of Cannabis flower 
• 7 Kilograms pre-rolled Cannabis "joints" 
• 5.8 Kilograms of Cannabis "shake" 
• 14 Kilograms of Cannabis infused gummies 
• 9.6 Kilograms of Cannabis infused chocolate 
• 800 Grams of Cannabis Hashish 
• 46 Cannabis resin syringes 
• 111 Cannabis oil cartridge 
• 2 Cannabis oil tinctures 
• 5 nicotine vapes

Approximately 30 illegal cannabis dispensaries are operating in Hamilton. Police continue to hear concerns from residents and licensed cannabis businesses that follow the rules. Enforcement against illegal cannabis dispensaries is part of the Service’s broader work to address community concerns and illegal drug activity.

Thanks to everyone for your support in helping to locate him.

Hamilton Police arrested a man for possession for the purpose of trafficking during a proactive patrol on York Boulevard and are reminding residents of a new way to report suspected drug activity.

On November 1, 2026, at approximately 1:30 p.m., CORE officers were patrolling the area of 94 York Boulevard in response to numerous community complaints about open drug use and trespassing.

 As officers approached, they observed a man place a drug pipe, scale and bag on a sharps container. The man was arrested, and a search located:

• Approximately 28 grams of suspected fentanyl.
• 26 pills believed to contain fentanyl.
• A small quantity of suspected crystal methamphetamine.
• 131 suspected Dilaudid pills.
• Five cellphones, scales, packaging materials and cash.

Following the search, the man was arrested for possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Community reports provide important information about recurring drug activity and neighbourhood concerns. Hamilton Police use this information, alongside other operational data, to identify emerging patterns, inform proactive patrols and support investigations. Residents and businesses can support this work through Hamilton Police’s new online drug activity reporting tool.

Since launching in September, there have been 110 reported occurrences using the online platform. The tool allows people to report suspected drug use or dealing they have observed when an immediate police response is not required. Information is reviewed to identify patterns, guide patrols and support investigations.

 Report suspected drug activity online.

Online reports do not result in an immediate police response. For emergencies or incidents in progress, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency situations requiring a more immediate response, call 905-546-4925.

Upon arrival, officers learned that two suspects had smashed the glass in the front door of the residence. Before the suspects could gain entry, they were confronted by the homeowner.

A brief altercation occurred outside the residence between the homeowner and the two suspects. The suspects subsequently fled the area in a small, black SUV. The homeowner sustained minor injuries during the confrontation.

Investigators believe the residence may have been specifically targeted.

Suspect 1:

• White male.
• Wearing a hooded sweater, light-coloured sweatpants, and black shoes with white accents.
• Wearing a black medical-style mask.
• Was in possession of a firearm.

Suspect 2:

• White male.
• Wearing a black hooded sweater, light-coloured sweatpants, and light-coloured shoes with reflective accents.
• Wearing light-coloured gloves.
• Possibly wearing a light-coloured face mask.

The firearm remains outstanding.

Hamilton Police are asking anyone who may have information about this incident, or who may have captured video surveillance footage of the suspects or suspect vehicle in the area, to contact Division 30 Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) by email at CID30@hamiltonpolice.ca.

On Sunday, November 1, 2026, at approximately 11:30 p.m., an officer travelling along Barton Street East near Victoria Street observed a vehicle being operated in an aggressive manner.

The officer initiated a traffic stop and spoke with the driver, who was unable to provide a valid driver's licence, proof of vehicle ownership, or proof of insurance. During the interaction, the officer also observed a bag of cannabis within the driver's reach, contrary to the Cannabis Control Act.

The driver was subsequently removed from the vehicle, and a search was conducted. During the search, officers located a handgun with a loaded magazine, along with a large quantity of Canadian currency.

The 30-year-old Hamilton man was arrested and faces several charges, including:

• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Prohibited Firearm with Ammunition
• Drive Vehicle with Cannabis Readily Available

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the on-duty Division 10 Staff Sergeant at 905-546-4725.

Hamilton Police are investigating a report of sewing needles found inside Halloween chocolate bars and are urging parents and caregivers to check their children’s candy.

On November 2, 2026, officers responded to a residence near Upper Ottawa Street and Mohawk Road after a parent reported finding needles in candy their children had collected while trick-or-treating.

The affected chocolate bars included Aero, KitKat and Caramilk.

Police believe the candy may have been collected along Limeridge Road, between Upper Ottawa Street and Upper Kenilworth Avenue, on either side of the street.

Parents and caregivers are urged to inspect all Halloween candy before children eat it. If you find anything suspicious, do not consume or discard it. Keep the candy and packaging and contact police.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Division 30 Staff Sergeant at 905-546-3886.

On November 1, 2026, at approximately 1:45 p.m., police were called to a restaurant located at 1223 Barton Street East following reports of an assault involving two male youths and a 59-year-old man. 

The incident began when the two youths approached young Air Cadets from a local squadron who were selling Remembrance Day poppies in front of the restaurant and blew a loud air horn directly into their ears. A 59-year-old adult supervising the cadets followed the youth suspects into the restaurant to confront them about their actions. 

A struggle ensued and an adult female who was not initially involved in the altercation jumped in to assist the youths. She proceeded to assault the victim, causing him to fall to the ground. One of the male youths then struck the victim several times before leaving the restaurant. The female also left the scene before police arrived.

Upon arrival, officers located the adult male victim inside the restaurant suffering from serious injuries. Hamilton Paramedic Services attended and transported the victim to a local hospital for treatment. His injuries are considered life-altering. 

A short time later, officers located the two youths at a nearby retail store after receiving reports of a new, unrelated disturbance. A 12-year-old male youth was arrested and charged with Assault Level One as well as Aggravated Assault.

This morning, officers located the female and placed her under arrest. She has also been charged with Aggravated Assault. 

Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to contact Hamilton Police Division 20 CID at 905-546-2907.

Two weeks ago, the Divisional HEAT Unit and Major Drugs and Gangs Unit executed a search warrant at 45 Wellington Street North. The dispensary reopened the following day, and the building owner was notified.

Yesterday, officers executed another search warrant at that location, shut down the operation and barred entry to the premises, including the building owner.

A 27-year-old Hamilton man was charged with:

• Selling Cannabis other than as an Authorized Retailer
• Possession of Illicit Cannabis
• Possession of Cannabis for the Purpose of Selling
• Proceeds of Crime

With assistance from other services including The Ministry of Labour Immigration, City of Hamilton Municiple By-Law, and OPP Contraband Tobacco Enforcement Team, a second warrant was also executed at another illegal cannabis dispensary located at 1142 Barton Street East. As a result of the investigation, a 24-year-old male was charged with the following offences:

• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000.00
• Trafficking in Controlled Tobacco
• Possession of Illicit Cannabis
• Possession of Cannabis for the Purpose of Selling
• Selling Cannabis without Authorization

“Our message to illegal cannabis operators is clear: we are coming for you. Reopening after police enforcement will bring further action,” said Chief Frank Bergen. “Building owners who knowingly allow these illegal businesses to operate should also expect scrutiny and enforcement where warranted. You cannot simply collect the rent and ignore what is happening on your property.”

Approximately 30 illegal cannabis dispensaries are operating in Hamilton. Police continue to hear concerns from residents and licensed cannabis businesses that follow the rules.

Search warrants and charges alone have not stopped some operators from reopening almost immediately. Hamilton Police are taking further steps to disrupt repeat illegal activity and prevent these locations from continuing to operate.

Addressing fentanyl trafficking remains a priority. Illegal cannabis establishments often have ties to broader organized crime networks. Enforcement against illegal cannabis dispensaries is part of the Service’s broader work to address community concerns and illegal drug activity.

On October 29, 2026, at approximately 8:00p.m., Hamilton Police received a report of a stabbing near 70 James Street. Responding officers located a 37-year-old male victim suffering from multiple stab wounds. The officers provided first aid, and the victim was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Moments later, a second report of a stabbing was made to Police. This incident occurred near 94 York Boulevard and left 39-year-old male with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. The victim was transported to a hospital and officers worked to gather suspect information.

While Police managed both incidents, officers who were en-route to the scenes located a male matching the suspect description. The individual was walking westbound on York Boulevard with a knife in hand. Officers conducted a high-risk takedown arrest and took the suspect into custody without further issue.

The accused has been charged with the following offences and held for bail:

• Aggrivated Assault x2
• Fail to Comply with Probation x 3
• Fail to Comply with Release Order

Police believe these attacks were unprovoked and completely random. Anyone with information is asked to contact Division 10 Staff Sergeant at 905-546-4725

On Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at approximately 2:33 p.m., police received reports of a large group of youths fighting in the parking lot near Tim Hortons at 505 Rymal Road East. Witnesses reported seeing a knife, a baseball bat and what appeared to be a firearm.

Officers arrived within two minutes - just as the group began to disperse. Police pursued a youth who ran toward a residential complex at 450 Rymal Road East.

Additional patrol officers and the Canine Unit responded to assist with the search. At approximately 3:12 p.m., officers located and arrested a 17-year-old youth as he was leaving the residential area. He was charged with one count of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and held for a bail hearing.  

Three other youths were arrested during the initial response and subsequently released without charges pending further investigation.

Officers recovered a CO2 airsoft gun from the west parking lot of the plaza and a baseball bat from the east parking lot. No knife or additional weapons were located.

No injuries were reported.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant video footage is asked to contact Hamilton Police.

If you have information that you feel would benefit this investigation you are encouraged to contact Division 3 Detectives at CID30@hamiltonpolice.ca

In July 2026, Hamilton Police received complaints involving unauthorized purchases on the credit and debit card accounts of residents at Carrington Place in Ancaster.

An investigation by the Hamilton Police Financial Crimes Unit identified a personal support worker employed at the retirement home as the suspect. Police allege the employee had access to residents' credit and debit cards while working at the facility.

On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, investigators arrested a 24-year-old Hamilton woman. A subsequent search warrant executed at her residence resulted in the recovery of evidence related to the fraudulent purchases.

Bella Azalia Carranza Mejia, 24, of Hamilton, has been charged with:

• Fraud Under $5,000 (three counts)
• Use Stolen Credit Card (three counts)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime (three counts)

Carranza Mejia was released on an undertaking with a future court date.

Hamilton Police are not seeking additional victims or witnesses in relation to this investigation.

Protecting Yourself Against Financial Fraud

Hamilton Police remind residents and their families of the importance of regularly monitoring financial accounts to identify suspicious activity.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre recommends reviewing bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions, watching for unfamiliar charges and immediately contacting your financial institution if fraudulent activity is suspected.

For more information about fraud prevention, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

On Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at approximately 4:30 a.m., police responded to reports of shots fired in the area of Atessa Drive and Rymal Road East.

Responding officers located a residence and vehicle that had been struck by gunfire. No injuries have been reported.

Police continue to hold the scene as detectives from the Hamilton Police Shooting Response Team and Division 3 Criminal Investigations Branch investigate.

Officers are expected to remain in the area for much of the morning as investigators collect evidence and canvass for witnesses and video surveillance.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no suspect information is available for release at this time.

Anyone with information about this shooting, including residential surveillance or dash camera footage from the area around the time of the incident, is asked to contact the Hamilton Police Shooting Response Team at 905-546-4883 or by email at shootingresponseteam@hamiltonpolice.ca.

In March 2026, Hamilton Police received a referral from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services following an investigation into suspected fraudulent benefit claims.

The Ministry's investigation determined that an individual had provided inaccurate information over several years, resulting in more than $133,000 in overpayments.

Following a review of the Ministry's findings, Hamilton Police determined there were grounds to lay criminal charges.

On Thursday, October 22, 2026, police arrested and charged Steven Andrew Christou, 48, of Hamilton, with:

• Fraud Over $5,000

Christou was released on an undertaking with a future court date.

Hamilton Police continue to work with government and community partners to investigate financial crimes and hold those responsible accountable.

Anyone with information that could assist this investigation is asked to contact Detective Mark Wilson of the Hamilton Police Financial Crimes Unit at 905-546-4517 or mwilson@hamiltonpolice.ca.

On Sunday, October 25, 2026, shortly before 10:30 p.m., Hamilton Police responded to reports of a vehicle and residential fire in the area of East 16th Street, between Inverness Avenue East and Mountville Avenue.

Multiple calls were received reporting vehicles and a residence on fire. Hamilton Police and Hamilton Fire Department responded to the scene.

A 30-year-old Hamilton man was subsequently located and arrested. He has been charged with arson-related offences.

Hamilton Police are working with the Office of the Fire Marshal to determine the origin, cause and circumstances surrounding the fire. The investigation remains ongoing.

East 16th Street, between Inverness Avenue East and Mountville Avenue, is expected to remain closed throughout Monday, October 26, 2026, as investigators examine the scene. Motorists and residents are asked to avoid the area and follow any posted detours.

Hamilton Police thank residents for their patience and cooperation as the investigation continues.

Anyone with information that may assist investigators is asked to contact the on-duty Division 3 Staff Sergeant at 905-546-3886.

On Sunday, August 16, 2026, at approximately 10:10 a.m., a male entered the Shoppers Drug Mart at Eastgate Square and began stealing medication from store shelves.

When confronted by employees, the suspect produced a knife and threatened staff before fleeing the store with stolen merchandise. He was last seen leaving the mall's east parking lot on foot.

Investigators have released images of the suspect and are asking anyone who recognizes him or has information about the incident to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Neenos Gorrges of the Hamilton Police BEAR Unit at 905-546-8935 or Detective Staff Sergeant Dave Brewster at 905-546-2991.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Hamilton Police has a longstanding partnership with Hamilton Crime Stoppers and has been working closely with the organization to understand the incident and its response.

In June, Hamilton Police informed the public that Crime Stoppers had made the Service aware of a breach and provided assurances that steps had been taken to mitigate the risk. Hamilton Police are now seeking further information to assess whether appropriate safeguards are in place before resuming use of the program.

Protecting people who come forward with information is essential to public trust and community safety. The decision to pause reflects the importance of safeguarding confidential information and the anonymity of those who use Crime Stoppers.

Crime Stoppers operates independently from Hamilton Police Service. Questions about the breach, what information may have been affected and the measures taken in response should be directed to the Canadian Crime Stoppers Association.

Members of the public can continue to report crimes or provide information directly to Hamilton Police by calling 905-546-4925. Reporting directly to police does not offer the anonymity associated with Crime Stoppers. For emergencies or a crime in progress, call 9-1-1.

Hamilton Police will provide an update when further information is available.

 On October 15, 2026, shorty before 8 p.m., the Hamilton Police responded to assist Hamilton Fire, for reports of smoke coming from a building on campus.  The fire was extinguished with moderate damage to the property.  There were no reported injuries as a result of the blaze. 

The matter is currently under investigation by the Break Enter Auto and Robbery Team Arson Investigator.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime, you are asked to contact Det. Cst Blunsdon at 905 540-5085.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

On Thursday, October 15, 2026, shortly before 3:00 a.m., police responded to a home invasion in the area of East 8th Street in Hamilton.

Three suspects forced their way into a residence, with one armed with a handgun. The suspects were confronted by the homeowner before fleeing the area on foot. No injuries were reported.

Police are seeking three suspects described as follows:

Suspect One:

• Black male
• Grey sweater and black pants
• Black shoes
• Face covering
• Black and yellow gloves

Suspect Two:

• Black male
• Black hoodie and green camouflage pants
• Black shoes
• Grey face covering
• Black backpack
• Yellow and black gloves
• Armed with a handgun

Suspect Three:

• Male
• Black hoodie and green pants
• Black shoes
• Carrying a blue bag

Investigators are appealing to anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area around the time of the incident to come forward. Residents are also encouraged to review their home security and surveillance footage for anything that may assist the investigation.

The Hamilton Police Division 3 Criminal Investigations Branch continues to investigate.

Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at CID30@hamiltonpolice.ca.

To provide information anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online at www.crimestoppershamilton.com.

On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, shortly after 8:30 p.m., police responded to a collision on Stone Church Road East involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.

A 91-year-old woman was walking westbound with the assistance of a mobility walker when she was struck from behind by a vehicle. She was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries and later succumbed to her injuries.

Following an investigation by the Hamilton Police Collision Reconstruction Unit, the 81-year-old driver was charged on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, with Careless Driving Causing Death.

The accused is scheduled to appear in court in December 2026.

Anyone with information regarding this collision is asked to contact the Collision Reconstruction Unit at 905-546-4753 or reconunit@hamiltonpolice.ca.

To provide information anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online at www.crimestoppershamilton.com.

On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at approximately 4:30 p.m., Hamilton Police responded to a fail-to-remain collision near London Street North and Roxborough Avenue.

A stolen SUV travelling at a high rate of speed struck a parked vehicle before three occupants fled the scene on foot.

Responding officers searched the surrounding area and located the three youths near Ottawa Street North. Following a brief foot pursuit, all three were arrested.

During searches following the arrests, officers recovered a BB gun, a can of bear spray and keys belonging to the stolen vehicle.

As a result of the investigation, three male youths from Hamilton have been arrested and charged with the following offences:

14-year-old male from Hamilton

• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
• Carrying a Concealed Weapon

14-year-old male from Hamilton

• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
• Carrying a Concealed Weapon
• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

15-year-old male from Hamilton

• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000

All three youths were released on undertakings.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Division Two Staff Sergeant's Office at 905-546-2963.

To provide information anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a tip online at www.crimestoppershamilton.com.

On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at approximately 10:53 a.m., Hamilton Police responded to St. Charles Learning Centre on East 5th Street after receiving reports that a student had been shot with a BB gun.

A 14-year-old male student sustained injuries to his face and was transported to hospital for treatment.

The suspect fled the area prior to police arrival. As a precaution, St. Charles Learning Centre was placed in lockdown, while nearby Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Elementary School was placed in a hold and secure. Both safety measures were subsequently lifted.

As a result of the investigation, a 15-year-old male from Hamilton has been arrested and charged with:

• Assault Causing Bodily Harm
• Assault with a Weapon
• Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose

The BB gun involved in the incident has not been recovered, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Division Three Criminal Investigation Branch detectives at cid30@hamiltonpolice.ca.

For those who wish to provide information anonymously, please consider reaching out to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at Crime Stoppers Hamilton's Website.

On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at approximately 1:30 p.m., police responded to a residence after a worker conducting tree removal nearby observed several puppies in distress inside an outdoor cage.

Responding officers located eight puppies that appeared severely undernourished, with several unresponsive and one appearing deceased.

Officers immediately provided water to the surviving puppies and contacted Animal Control and Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS).

Seven puppies were transported by police to an emergency veterinary clinic, where one was confirmed deceased. The remaining six received veterinary care.

The homeowner was contacted and has been cooperative with police.

Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) has taken carriage of the investigation.

Any further updates regarding the investigation will be provided by PAWS.

On Saturday, October 10, 2026, at approximately 8:20 p.m., a male suspect entered a pizza restaurant on Fennell Avenue East armed with what appeared to be a handgun and demanded cash from the register.

Approximately 30 minutes later, a male suspect entered a cannabis dispensary, also on Fennell Avenue East, and demanded cash and merchandise while armed with what appeared to be a handgun.

An undisclosed amount of cash and merchandise was stolen during the robberies. No physical injuries were reported.

The suspect is described as:

• White male
• Wearing black clothing
• Wearing a blue medical mask
• Armed with what appeared to be a black handgun

Hamilton Police BEAR Unit investigators believe the same suspect is responsible for both robberies.

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area or has information that could assist with the investigation to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Victoria Przerwa at 905-546-3880 or Staff Sergeant David Brewster at 905-546-2991.

To provide information anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online at www.crimestoppershamilton.com.