Police searching for 14-year-old boy involved in fatal Jackson Square shooting

Hamilton police say they are searching for a 14-year-old boy allegedly involved in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy inside Jackson Square.

At a press conference Saturday afternoon, investigators told media that officers responded to reports of a shooting inside the mall Friday at approximately 5:10 p.m.

Upon arrival, authorities located a 16-year-old boy suffering from life-threatening injuries. The teen was transported to hospital where he later died of his injuries.

Police have identified the 16-year-old victim as Nabil Askafe of Hamilton.

Two male suspects were observed fleeing the area eastbound toward James Street. Police have identified the shooter as a 14-year-old boy who they say was the only one with a firearm.

Investigators say there was a physical altercation prior to the shooting in which the accused brandished a firearm that was previously concealed.

Surveillance footage revealed the victim was on King Street near Hess Street walking towards the mall. This is when Askafe had a “small interaction” with the two suspects — which continued into the mall. The shooting happened just inside the doors off of King Street near The Himalayan Hearth Bar & Grill.

After being shot, Askafe walked about 100 feet to another store where he collapsed — this is where he was located by police and emergency services.

According to officers, the family of the victim — his mother, father and younger brother — recently immigrated here from Syria.

Authorities are in the process of securing judicial authorization to release the name and photo of the shooter. Once approved, it will be sent out to media and shared with the public.

The 14-year-old boy is being urged to contact police and turn himself in. He is facing a second-degree murder charge.

Police are also working to identify the other suspect with the 14-year-old.

Anyone with information related to this shooting is asked to contact police at 905-546-3825.

Those wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or via their website.

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