Hamilton stabbing victim dies in hospital, accused identified

Hamilton police release a photo of 47-year-old Venanzio (Vinny) Tirabassi. Police say he died in hospital after a fatal stabbing to the chest on Thurs. Jan. 2. (Hamilton Police Service)

Hamilton police say the victim of a downtown-area stabbing earlier this year has died.

In a media update Wednesday, Hamilton Police Service (HPS) identified the victim of the Jan. 2 stabbing.

They say 47-year-old Venanzio (Vinny) Tirabassi died from his injuries in hospital on Tuesday.

“Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to Vinny’s family during this incredibly difficult time,” an HPS spokesperson said.

“The homicide unit has now taken charge of this investigation.”

Shortly after 7 p.m. on Thurs. Jan. 2, police responded to a call at the Good Shepherd homeless shelter on Mary Street near Cannon Street East.

Tirabassi was found with a stab wound to the chest.

The suspect was still on scene and arrested that same night.

“At this time, we don’t have any information to suggest that there was an altercation, but we are still investigating,” HPS said at today’s update.

“The [accused and the victim] were both residents of the same dorm. They had both been at the shelter for a period of time together.”

They added that the stabbing is believed to be an isolated incident.

Investigators identified the accused as 53-year-old Fredeman Renderos.

He was initially charged with aggravated assault, but police say the charge will now be upgraded to second-degree murder. The charges have not been tested in court.