Hamilton Police have arrested and charged a 12-year-old male youth and a 48-year-old female following an assault at a restaurant inside Centre Mall that left a man with life-altering injuries.

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.