Hamilton shootings on the rise in 2019 — police increase patrols, create task force

Hamilton police are creating a task force to take on gun violence and drug trafficking in response to a sharp rise in shootings.

There have been eight shootings in Hamilton so far in 2019, compared to three shootings last year during the same time period.

Many of this year's shootings have happened in "very public places," according to Supt. Ryan Diodati, who described the recent rash of gun violence as "not acceptable."

Many of the people who are committing these shootings are certainly not proficient in handling and firing of a firearm," he explained. "Any time any member of our public is in close proximity to bullets flying, it's a concern."

The task force will be made up of 16 officers from all three police divisions, including members of the guns and gangs and heat units, who will work with police analysts and intelligence officials.

Here's a look at every shooting in the city so far this year:

Police said both victims and witnesses have been largely uncooperative when it comes to sharing information about shootings so far.

Diodati said that reluctance can be inspired by fear of retribution from the people who pulled the trigger or a desire to avoid deeper examination from police because victims may be involved in criminal activities.

But in order to make arrests, police need help.

"We can't do this alone," said the superintendent. "There are people out there with information and we encourage them to come forward to hold those responsible accountable."

We need to continue working together to make sure Hamilton is a safe place for everyone.- Supt. Ryan Diodati

Diodati explained that the focus on drugs along with the shootings is a response to a spike in violence surrounding increased use of fentanyl and other opioids.

"In past shootings where we've been able to follow evidence and make arrests that often the people involved are also trafficking in illicit drugs."

Along with the task force, police say they have also increased patrols and executed search warrants in response to the increase in shootings.

Analysis has identified Division 2 — which covers Sherman Avenue to the eastern border of Stoney Creek and the mountain brow to Lake Ontario — as a "hotspot" for shootings so far, so police will focus their efforts there.

'If you see something, say something'

Police note the majority of the shootings have been targeted, but pointed to an incident on Feb. 1 when a couple woke up to find a bullet hole in the side of their home on the Mountain.

Investigators say the house doesn't appear to be the intended target and are continuing to investigate why the building was hit.

The service is pleading with anyone with information about a shooting to contact them or Crime Stoppers.

"We know there are individuals out there who have information. It's important that if you see something, you say something," said Diodati.

"We need to continue working together to make sure Hamilton is a safe place for everyone."