Tragic Shooting Outside Burlington Restaurant

In a shocking incident, an alleged Hells Angels member was shot dead outside a Burlington restaurant during a significant crackdown on illegal sports betting. The victim, identified as 55-year-old Craig McIlquham, was pronounced dead shortly after paramedics transported him to the hospital following the shooting that unfolded around 8:30 p.m. at the Mandarin restaurant on Fairview Street.

A Targeted Attack?

Halton regional police believe the shooting was a targeted act. Although no arrests have been made yet, investigators are pursuing leads, including a vehicle of interest—a grey, newer-model Honda Civic with dark-tinted windows and black alloy rims. Authorities are calling on anyone with potential video footage from the vicinity between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. to step forward.

From Biker to Bust: The Backstory

Known by the nickname "Truck," McIlquham was one of the prominent figures arrested in 2019 during Operation Hobart, a two-year investigation into an alleged illegal gambling operation allegedly involving Hells Angels bikers and a crime family from Toronto. Together with Robert Barletta, the founder of the London chapter of the Hells Angels, McIlquham was accused of managing a sophisticated gambling ring that allegedly controlled at least 14 sports-betting websites, amassing upwards of $160 million in revenue over six years.

The Legal Fallout

While the operation led to charges against more than 30 individuals, including McIlquham and Barletta—who faced multiple charges including firearms offences—the cases have struggled in court, with many charges against defendants being withdrawn or stayed. Legal battles continue surrounding approximately $40 million in seized assets, which includes luxury homes, high-end vehicles, and various valuables. McIlquham's profile was further complicated by evidence suggesting he and his wife laundered crime proceeds through their real estate acquisitions.

A Pattern of Violence

Tragically, this isn’t the first violent incident linked to the Hells Angels stemming from the Hobart investigation. In 2019, Michael Deabauta-Schulde, another alleged Hells Angel member, was murdered outside a gym in Mississauga while under police surveillance. Moreover, Barletta himself survived an assassination attempt in 2020 when he was shot at in broad daylight.

Community Shocked by Violence

The community and authorities are now left reeling from McIlquham's murder as they seek answers. This incident underscores the ongoing struggle against organized crime and the dangers that come with it. As police continue their investigation into not only the shooting but the larger implications of gambling-related violence, residents are being urged to remain vigilant.