Investigation into Stoney Creek homicides
Hamilton police are investigating the deaths of two teenagers following a shooting at a townhouse complex in Stoney Creek early Wednesday morning. Officers were called to the Tabby Town Co-Op Housing complex at 191 Candlewood Dr. at approximately 2:25 a.m. following reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, police discovered two males suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite being transported to a local hospital, both victims succumbed to their injuries. The Hamilton Police Service identified the victims as 18-year-old Abdulmalek Shibli and 16-year-old Afef Binafif, both of whom were residents of Hamilton.
Potential links to earlier disturbance
Det. Sgt. Mike Ebert of the Hamilton Police Service indicated that the incident may be connected to an earlier disturbance involving bear spray, which occurred near Barton Street East and Centennial Parkway shortly before midnight on Tuesday. Detectives believe that at least six individuals traveled to the Candlewood Drive location, where a targeted exchange of gunfire occurred.
“We’re still collecting evidence as to what happened and what everybody’s involvement was,” Det. Sgt. Ebert stated during a press briefing. While police have not yet recovered the weapons used in the shooting, they have confirmed that multiple firearms were involved. Investigators also seized a vehicle from the scene that is believed to have been used by members of the group.
Witness accounts and police efforts
Area residents reported hearing what they initially mistook for fireworks, followed by shouts for help. One witness described seeing a large group of young people involved in a confrontation before shots were fired. The Hamilton Police homicide unit is currently leading the investigation, and a K9 unit was deployed to the scene to assist in recovering evidence, including clothing and potential forensic materials.
Police are urging any members of the public who may have been involved in the incident to seek legal counsel and turn themselves in. Investigators are also requesting that residents in the vicinity review any available home security or dashcam footage recorded between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m. on Wednesday. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Hamilton Police homicide unit at 905-546-3825.