Hamilton Police have arrested a male youth in connection with an armed robbery that occurred in the city’s downtown core.

On Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at approximately 3:00 p.m., a victim was walking in the area of John Street North and Barton Street East when he was approached by a group of three male youths. During the interaction, one of the youths engaged the victim in conversation about his jacket before demanding that he hand it over. When the victim refused, the suspect produced what appeared to be a black firearm from a satchel.

Fearing for his safety, the victim complied and surrendered his jacket. The suspects then fled the area.

Responding officers quickly saturated the surrounding area and located one of the suspects shortly after the incident. A 15-year-old male was taken into custody without incident. A search incident to arrest resulted in the recovery of the stolen jacket and a realistic-looking black BB gun.

The accused has been charged with Robbery with a Firearm and is scheduled to appear in court.

Investigators are continuing efforts to identify and locate the two outstanding suspects.

Anyone with information that may assist in this investigation is asked to contact the on-duty Division 10 Staff Sergeant at 905-546-4725. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit tips online at crimestoppershamilton.com.