Hamilton Police continue to investigate into the shooting incident in Hamilton’s east end.

On Monday, December 4, 2023, shortly after 11:00 p.m., Hamilton Police responded to a shots fired call after receiving reports that a firearm and muzzle flash were witnessed in the area of Gage Avenue South and Lawrence Road.

Acting on a provided suspect description, police successfully identified and apprehended a 58-year-old man, Gianni Paul Deluca, in close proximity to the incident site. Subsequent to the arrest, a search was conducted, revealing the following items in the possession of Deluca;

• Small revolver style firearm
• Pepper spray
• 72.2 grams of fentanyl
• 12.5 grams of cocaine

Gianni Paul Deluca has been charged with the following;

• Possession for the Purpose Schedule 1- Cocaine
• Proceeds of Crime under $5000
• Unauthorized Possession of Firearm
• Prohibited Firearm- Loaded/Unloaded
• Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of Firearm
• Possession of Prohibited Firearm- unloaded with ammunition accessible
• Careless Use, Carry, Transport, Storage of Firearm, Weapon, Ammunition
• Possession Contrary to Order
• Possession for the Purpose Schedule 1- Fentanyl
• Discharge firearm with intent

During the investigation of the crime scene, police discovered a blood trail that guided them to a residence, resulting in the arrest of a 37-year-old male, Daniel Hanson and a 25-year-old male, Hayden Scott Ermel.

Daniel Hanson has been charged with the following;

• Fail to Comply Probation
• Obstruct Peace Officer
• Robbery with Violence
• Administering Noxious thing with intent to Aggrieve or Annoy

Hayden Scott Ermel has been charged with the following;

• Robbery with Violence
• Administering Noxious Thing with intent to Aggrieve or Annoy
• Two Counts of Fail to Comply Probation

 Hayden Scott Ermel sustained a gunshot wound to his left hand and was transported to hospital for treatment.

At this time, it is believed that the Ermel and Hanson attempted to rob Deluca. This led to a confrontation, ultimately resulting in the discharge of a firearm. 

On Tuesday, December 5, 2023, police executed a search warrant at the residence and located two BB guns.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime, please contact Detective Sergeant Candace Culp at 905-546-2907.

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