Police say over 80 shots fired, three injured in downtown Hamilton shooting

Hamilton police say three people have been injured after a shooting in the area of Bowen Street and Jackson Street East around 1:50 a.m. Saturday.

All three victims have been taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Officers say a large crime scene has been taped off and road closures continue to be in effect as detectives carry out their investigation.

Residents are asked to avoid the areas near:

• Jackson Street East between John Street and Catharine Street
• Bowen Street between Main Street East and Jackson Street East

Police believe multiple firearms were used, as the evidence at the scene indicates upwards of 80 shots were fired.

“At the scene, these casings were several different calibers. At this point, the investigators believe that a number of handguns and assault rifles were used in the commission of the offence,” said Insp. Ben Thibodeau with the Hamilton police.

One of the victims had been leaving a bar at the corner of Jackson Street East and John Street South.

“There is no evidence at this point that there was any disturbance inside the bar. The entirety of the shooting took place outside the establishment. With regard to that victim, I can also confirm that while providing medical assistance, we recovered a firearm that he had on him. So he has since been arrested and he will be charged with firearms offences,” said Insp. Ben Thibodeau.

Police say they believe the shooting was targeted.

“That being said, in excess of 80 rounds – It’s a level of violence that is extreme, it’s extremely dangerous. So even though it was targeted, it’s obviously very dangerous for the people in the vicinity,” said Insp. Ben Thibodeau.

READ MORE: Hamilton man, 21, faces multiple charges after east-end shooting

This area is no stranger to gun violence.

Two businesses in the area, Club 33 and Sankofa Lounge, were shut down last year in connection to violent incidents.

“It was ruled that they were operating illegally. Our major drugs and gangs unit worked swiftly to close these establishments. They worked with partners such as AGCO and the city bylaw,” said Insp. Ben Thibodeau.

A new business is in the building where Sankofa Lounge used to be. The owner says she heard the gun shots.

“I just heard a gunshot like pop, pop, pop, like continuously. I was so scared because I didn’t know what was going on,” said Esther Ojooba, owner of Divine Kitchen.

She opened her business here just a week ago, and now fears for its success.

“I don’t really feel good because it’s a business that we want to keep growing. And then when people hear anything about, oh I don’t want to go downtown, I don’t want to go. They won’t want to come,” said Ojooba.

At this time, authorities are still looking for the suspects.

Officers are aware there was a nearby event at the time of the shooting, and believe many people may have information that could assist their investigation.

Residents and business owners in the area are advised to check surveillance cameras as well.

Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward and get in touch with police at 905-546-4883 or email shootingresponseteam@hamiltonpolice.ca.

Those who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

READ MORE: Hamilton to begin Jamesville demolition Sept. 8, despite CN Rail appeal