Hamilton, ON — Hamilton Police have identified 17-year-old Mackale Lavoie as the suspect in a deadly double shooting in the city’s downtown core that took the life of 26-year-old Belinda Sarkodie, an innocent bystander, on Friday, July 11, 2025.
The incident occurred around 5:25 p.m. near King Street East and James Street North, close to Jackson Square Shopping Centre. What was a bustling Friday evening in Hamilton’s downtown turned tragic when gunfire erupted in the busy area.
According to Hamilton Police, Lavoie allegedly encountered a group of three individuals who appear to have been his intended targets. He opened fire, striking one male in the group, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital. As Lavoie continued shooting at a second individual, a stray bullet fatally struck Belinda Sarkodie, a 26-year-old Ghanaian immigrant who was simply going about her day. Despite efforts by emergency responders, Sarkodie was pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspect fled on foot, heading northbound on James Street, prompting a citywide manhunt that continues as Lavoie remains at large.
**A Community in Mourning**
The shooting has left Hamilton reeling, with residents and leaders expressing shock and grief over the senseless loss of life. Duty Inspector Greg Doerr addressed the tragedy, stating, “This was a horrific and brazen act of violence. A young woman with no connection to the incident lost her life in an instant. Our hearts go out to her family and loved ones.”
Sarkodie, who had immigrated to Canada from Ghana in 2024, was a University of Cape Coast graduate living and working in Hamilton. Friends and family described her as a vibrant, kindhearted woman with a bright future. She was reportedly at a bus stop, spending time with a friend, when she was caught in the crossfire of what police believe may have been a gang-related incident.
**Suspect Wanted, Considered Dangerous**
Hamilton Police have issued a warrant for Mackale Lavoie’s arrest, charging him with second-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder. Due to the severity of the crime and public safety concerns, authorities obtained a judicial order to publicly identify the 17-year-old suspect and release his photograph.
Police have emphasized that Lavoie is considered dangerous and should not be approached. “If you see Mackale Lavoie or know of his whereabouts, do not engage,” police stated in a public safety advisory. “Contact Hamilton Police Service immediately at 905-546-4925 or call 9-1-1.”
**Ongoing Investigation**
The investigation is ongoing, with forensic teams analyzing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and following all available leads. Detective Sergeant John Obrovac noted that while the male victim may have been known to the suspect, there is no evidence to suggest Sarkodie was targeted or had any connection to Lavoie. “Belinda was an innocent bystander, simply going about her day,” Obrovac said.
Hamilton Police are committed to using every resource to apprehend the suspect and bring justice to Sarkodie’s family, who have been notified, including her brother in Manitoba and relatives in Ghana.
**A Call for Unity and Justice**
The shooting has sparked outrage among community leaders, with Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath addressing the tragedy, saying, “This should never be happening. We must come together to address the root causes of such violence and ensure our streets are safe for everyone.”
Sarkodie’s death has resonated beyond Hamilton, with tributes pouring in from her home country of Ghana. A video of her singing and praising God, shared on social media, has evoked widespread sadness, highlighting the profound loss of a young woman described as full of life and faith.
As the search for Mackale Lavoie continues, Hamilton Police encourage anyone with information, no matter how minor, to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
The Hamilton community remains united in grief, honoring Belinda Sarkodie’s memory and demanding accountability for the senseless act that stole her life.
