Suspect named after east-Hamilton shooting that killed two teens
Hamilton police have identified a 15-year-old as the primary suspect in a fatal double shooting that left two young Hamilton residents dead in the city’s east end.
Officers were called to 191 Candlewood Drive in Stoney Creek at about 2:30 a.m. on July 29, where two males were found with gunshot wounds. Both were transported to hospital and later pronounced dead.
Police have released the name and photograph of the suspect, 15-year-old Rahziel Martin of Hamilton, after obtaining judicial authority to do so until 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 4 or until his arrest. Martin is wanted on two counts of second-degree murder and four counts of attempted murder using a firearm.
"Investigators believe at least six individuals attended the area of 191 Candlewood Drive, where an exchange of gunfire occurred," police said in a release.
Context and police findings
Police say the victims have been identified as 18-year-old Abdulmalek Shibli and 16-year-old Afef Binafif, both of Hamilton. Investigators have described the shooting as possibly linked to an earlier disturbance at a residence in the east end of the city involving bear spray.
The service has urged Martin to surrender. Authorities also warned that anyone assisting him might be charged.
- Location: 191 Candlewood Drive, Stoney Creek (east Hamilton)
- Date and time: July 29 at approximately 2:30 a.m.
- Victims: 18-year-old Abdulmalek Shibli; 16-year-old Afef Binafif
- Named suspect: 15-year-old Rahziel Martin (charges: two counts second-degree murder; four counts attempted murder using a firearm)
Potential community impact
The deaths of two teenagers in Stoney Creek have prompted a heightened police presence and community concern in east Hamilton. The identification and public naming of a juvenile suspect under judicial authorization is an uncommon step that reflects the seriousness of the charges and the urgency of locating the individual.
Investigators characterise the incident as involving multiple people and an exchange of gunfire, and they have indicated the shooting may have been retaliation for the earlier disturbance. Police have not released further details about the alleged prior incident beyond saying it involved bear spray at a residence in the area.
What police are asking of the public
Hamilton police are encouraging anyone with information to come forward and are urging the named suspect to turn himself in. The service has cautioned residents that harbouring or assisting a wanted person can lead to criminal charges.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Call time | ~2:30 a.m., July 29 |
| Scene | 191 Candlewood Drive, Stoney Creek |
| Victims | Abdulmalek Shibli, 18; Afef Binafif, 16 (both Hamilton) |
| Suspect | Rahziel Martin, 15 (wanted on 2 counts second-degree murder; 4 counts attempted murder) |
As the investigation continues, police have not released additional information about the motive beyond the possible link to the earlier disturbance. Residents who witnessed the incident, have dash-cam or doorbell footage, or possess other information relevant to the case are asked to contact Hamilton Police Service investigators.
The deaths mark a tragic loss for the families and the local community. Police statements and the judicial authority to release a juvenile name indicate the case will remain a priority as authorities seek to locate and arrest the suspect and to determine the circumstances that led to the exchange of gunfire.
Further updates will come from Hamilton Police Service as the investigation proceeds and as charges are advanced in court.
