Hamilton Police name teen suspect in fatal Shooting that claimed life of Ghanaian woman

Hamilton police have issued an arrest warrant for 17-year-old Mackale Lavoie, the prime suspect in a deadly shooting that killed Belinda Sarkodie, a Ghanaian woman, and injured another man in the downtown core on July 11.

The incident occurred around 5:25 p.m. near King Street East and James Street North, when Lavoie allegedly opened fire on a group of three individuals he is believed to have targeted.

During the shooting, 26-year-old Sarkodie, an innocent bystander, was fatally struck while spending time with a friend.

“She was simply going about her day when tragedy struck,” said Detective Sergeant John Obrovac at a press briefing on Saturday. Sarkodie had immigrated to Canada from Ghana in 2024 and had been living and working in Hamilton.

Her family in Ghana has been notified, while her brother, who lives in Manitoba, remains her only close relative in Canada.

Another male victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital.

While police believe Lavoie may have known one of the intended targets, there is no evidence that he knew Sarkodie or that she was deliberately targeted.

Officers described the crime scene as “chaotic and distressing,” and continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Lavoie is wanted for second-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder, and police are appealing to the public for any information on his whereabouts.

Authorities strongly advise against approaching the suspect, warning that he is considered dangerous.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Hamilton Police Service immediately.