Homicide Victim
Hamilton Police are investigating an early morning shooting that killed two young males.
On July 29, 2026, at approximately 2:25 a.m., Hamilton Police responded to a residence on Candlewood Drive following reports of shots fired.
Upon arrival, officers located two males suffering from gunshot wounds. Both were transported to hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries.
The victims have been identified as 18-year-old Abdulmalek Shibli and 16-year-old Afef Binafif from Hamilton.
The investigation remains in its early stages, and investigators are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. At this time, police believe the shooting may have been retaliation for an earlier disturbance involving bear spray at a residence in Hamilton’s east end.
Investigators believe at least six individuals attended the area of 191 Candlewood Drive, where an exchange of gunfire occurred.
Residents in the area of 191 Candlewood Drive can expect a continued police presence for at least the next 24 hours as the investigation continues.
Anyone in the area is asked to review any available video surveillance and contact police if they observed suspicious activity between 1:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m.
The victims’ families are devastated on the loss of their loved ones and have asked for privacy at this time.
Investigators encourage anyone who may have been involved in the incident to connect with legal counsel and contact police to turn themselves in. Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to contact investigators at 905-546-3825.
For those who wish to provide information anonymously, please consider reaching out to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at Crime Stoppers Hamilton’s Website.
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