Hamilton police looking to identify a potential witness in the double homicide of Jahmal Thomas and Rhonda Homsombath

Hamilton police were called to a bar Urban Lounge, located in the basement of Sam’s Tavern at 632 Barton St E on March 8th at approximately 5:00 am on the report of a shooting.

Police and paramedics arrived to find three men and a woman suffering from injuries. All of the victims were rushed to the hospital where one male and the female victim died of their injuries. Police said a 39-year-old male was pronounced at the hospital and a 25-year-old female succumbed to her injuries shortly after 8:00 a.m. A 38-year-old male and a 29-year-old male remain in stable condition.

Hamilton police reported that the individuals had attended a memorial celebration for murder victim Carel Douse at the Zen Lounge on John St. South earlier in the evening. Carel Douse was stabbed to death on May 18, 2019, at a residence on East Avenue North in Hamilton. The celebration moved to Urban Lounge on Barton Street East after the Zen Lounge closed, Shortly after 5:00 a.m.

Police are searching for a suspect who is described as

  • Male, black, dark skin
  • Thin build
  • Possibly in his early 30s
  • Approximately 5’10
  • Believed to have short braids
  • Wearing dark jeans or pants and a track suit-style zip-up jacket

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Daryl Reid at 905-546-3825.

Update March 9th
The victims have been identified as 39-year-old Jahmal Thomas of Brantford and 25-year-old Rhonda Homsombath of Hamilton. A  38-year-old male and a 29-year-old male are recovering in hospital. Police have not established the relationship between any of the victims.

Investigators believe that Jahmal Thomas was the intended target and that Homsombath and the other two victims were innocent bystanders.

Hamilton Police continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward. Area residents are also asked to check their security cameras for any suspicious activity during 5:00 a.m. – 6:00 a.m on March 8th

To provide information anonymously, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at www.crimestoppershamilton.com .

Update October 26th
Hamilton Police have exhausted attempts to identify the male depicted in the released video. Police are asking this male to come forward and speak to investigators.

Police said the investigation has led them to believe there was more than shooter. Hamilton Police encourage anyone with information to come forward and contact Det. Daryl Reid at 905-546-3825.

The 2020 Hamilton Homicide Victim List is available here.