26-year-old Ghanaian woman fatally shot in Hamilton, Canada
A heartbreaking incident occurred in Hamilton, Canada, where Belinda Sarkodie, a Ghanaian woman, lost her life in a shooting on King Street on Friday, July 11, 2015. Preliminary reports indicate that Ms. Sarkodie was waiting at a bus stop, checking herself in a mirror, when she was fatally shot in the head. Two other individuals were involved in the violence, with one dying at the scene and another sustaining injuries. Eyewitness accounts suggest Ms. Sarkodie may have been an unintended victim, potentially caught in a gang-related shootout.
The incident is part of a disturbing pattern of gun violence in Canadian cities, where innocent bystanders become casualties. Recent incidents, such as the death of international student Harsimrat Randhawa in Hamilton in April 2025 and the tragic killing of Adu Boakye in Toronto in February 2024, demonstrate the devastating impact of gun violence.
The Hamilton Police are actively investigating the incident, with the crime scene cordoned off. The motive remains unclear, and no arrests have been made. The Ghanaian High Commission in Ottawa and other associations are expected to work with local authorities to follow up on the investigation and provide support to the Ghanaian community.
The Ghanaian diaspora in Canada, estimated to be over 100,000 strong, is deeply affected by Ms. Sarkodie’s death. The community in Hamilton is particularly shaken, with many concerned about safety and security and is coming together to support one another and advocate for change. As the police continue their work, the Ghanaian community mourns the loss of Belinda Sarkodie, and the lack of immediate family in Canada adds to the sorrow.
