14-year-old suspect in fatal Jackson Square mall shooting surrenders to Hamilton police

Police have closed the roads around Jackson Square following a fatal shooting on Friday, April 24, 2026. (CP24)

A 14-year-old male suspect wanted in the fatal shooting of another teenager at Hamilton’s Jackson Square mall has been arrested.

In an update on Sunday night, Hamilton police said the suspect had turned himself. His arrest came a day after investigators obtained judicial authorization to identify him.

The 14-year-old who can no longer be named under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act was wanted for second-degree murder.

Police had been the subject of an extensive search since Friday night, when he allegedly fatally shot 16-year-old Nabil Askafe inside the mall.

Askafe recently moved to Canada from Syria with his family, police said. The teen leaves behind his mother and father, and a younger brother, who, police said, are “completely devastated at this loss.”

No outstanding suspects

Investigators initially said they were searching for two people, but on Sunday, after the teen surrendered, they confirmed no other outstanding suspects.

“Police have now spoken to all the individuals involved in Friday’s altercation at Jackson Square and are not looking for any more suspects,” Sunday’s news release read.

Hamilton police Chief Frank Bergen said in a statement that the shooting is “deeply troubling” given that a young person is suspected to be responsible.

“Our community continues to grieve the loss of a 16-year-old whose life was cut short in an act of senseless violence,” Bergen said.

“This is not just a police matter – it is a community call to action. We should all be concerned when violence becomes an option for youth instead of resolution and hope.”