In a shocking incident that unfolded on Friday afternoon, a woman identified as Belinda Sarkodie was fatally shot in downtown Hamilton, leaving the community in mourning.

A Day Turned Deadly

Sarkodie, who had recently moved to Canada from Ghana, was heading home after a day out with a friend when tragedy struck at the bustling corner of King Street East and James Street North, just before 5:30 p.m. Hamilton police reported that she was an innocent bystander caught in a senseless act of violence.

Chaos Erupts at the Scene

Detective Sergeant John Obrovac described the scene as "chaotic" upon arrival. Officers initially found a male victim suffering from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound, while Sarkodie was discovered further along King Street East, tragically pronounced dead at the scene.

The Hunt for Answers

The suspect, a white male in his twenties, managed to flee the scene on foot. He was described as having a medium build and brown hair, wearing a distinctive black T-shirt with a white design, blue shorts, and a dark medical mask.

Authorities believe the male victim was the intended target of the shooting, with no evidence suggesting Sarkodie knew the shooter or was specifically targeted. Her brother, residing in Manitoba, is now left to grieve a sister whose life was abruptly cut short.

Community Shock and Support

This incident marks the second time this year that an innocent bystander has lost their life to gun violence in Hamilton, raising urgent concerns about safety within the community. In April, a 21-year-old Mohawk College student was also tragically caught in the line of fire.

Detective Obrovac reassured the public that all available resources are being deployed to apprehend the suspect and solve this heartbreaking crime. Investigators are currently canvassing for witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding businesses and the mall.

Call for Information

As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement urges anyone with information to step forward, emphasizing that even the smallest detail could be crucial. Homicide investigators can be reached at 905-546-4167 or tips can be made anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.