Hamilton Police are investigating a tragic and brazen daytime shooting that occurred yesterday in the area of King Street East and James Street North, resulting in the death of a 26-year-old woman.
On Friday, July 11, 2025, at approximately 5:25 p.m., Hamilton Police received multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire near the intersection of King Street East and James Street North. When uniform patrol officers arrived, they encountered a chaotic and distressing scene. Two victims were located. A male victim suffering from a gunshot wound was transported to hospital where he received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. A second victim, identified as 26-year-old Belinda Sarkodie, was found further west along King Street, also suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite life-saving efforts, she was tragically pronounced deceased at the scene.
Belinda had immigrated to Canada from Ghana in 2024 and was living and working in Hamilton. At the time of the incident, she had been in the downtown core spending time with a friend. At this time, investigators believe the male victim may have been the intended target, and that Belinda was an innocent bystander tragically caught in the crossfire. There is no known connection between Belinda and the suspect, nor between Belinda and the male victim.
Hamilton Police are releasing the following description of the suspect:
- White male
- Medium build
- Brown hair
- Wearing a black t-shirt with a white design on the front and a large red letter "V" on the back
- Blue shorts, dark socks, and dark shoes
- Wearing a dark, medical-style mask
Hamilton Police are working diligently to identify and apprehend the person responsible for this senseless act of violence. We are committed to using every available resource to bring justice to Belinda and her loved ones. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Belinda’s family and friends during this unimaginable time.
Hamilton Police Victim Services is providing support to the family, and we ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve. Anyone with information, video footage, or who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact Detective Michael Ebert of the Homicide Unit at 905-546-4167 or 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.
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