Hamilton, Ontario 2026 Homicide Victim List
2026 Canada Homicide Map
Hamilton Police are investigating a double homicide after a shooting at a residence on Candlewood Drive in the early morning hours of July 29, 2026.
Officers were dispatched to the area around 2:25 a.m. following reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found two male victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Both were taken to hospital but later died from their injuries.
The deceased have been identified as 18-year-old Abdulmalek Shibli and 16-year-old Afef Binafif, both from Hamilton.
Investigators say the case is still in its early stages as they work to determine exactly what happened. Preliminary information suggests the shooting may have been connected to an earlier incident involving bear spray at a residence in Hamilton’s east end.
Police believe at least six people were present in the area of 191 Candlewood Drive when gunfire was exchanged. Police believe the shooting may have been carried out in retaliation for an earlier bear spray incident at a residence in Hamilton’s east end.
A significant police presence will remain in the neighbourhood for at least the next 24 hours while investigators continue to collect evidence and process the scene.
Residents are being asked to check any home security or surveillance footage they may have and report anything suspicious that occurred between 1:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. on July 29.
The families of the two victims have requested privacy as they grieve their loss.
Update: Hamilton Police have arrested a 15-year-old male in connection with the July 29, 2026, shooting that claimed the lives of Afef Binalfif and Abdulmalek Shibli. The youth turned himself in to police on the evening of August 2nd.
He has been charged with:
- Two counts of second-degree murder
- Four counts of attempted murder with a firearm
All identifying information and images related to the 15-year-old wanted in connection with the homicide must now be removed.
Police have also arrested and charged a 34-year-old woman with:
- Accessory after the fact to murder
- Obstructing police
Both accused are scheduled to appear in court on August 3, 2026.
Investigators also clarified that only one firearm was discharged during the incident. The second firearm involved in the confrontation has been identified as an imitation firearm.
Investigators are also urging anyone who was involved in the incident to seek legal counsel and arrange to surrender to police. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 905-546-3825.