Hamilton Police provided a detailed update today regarding the fatal shooting that occurred early Sunday morning, marking the city’s fifth homicide of the year. The incident took place in the area of Highway 6 in Flamborough, between Concessions 7 and 8, stemming from a disturbance at a large house party held at a short-term rental property.
At approximately 4:35 a.m. on June 30, 2024, Hamilton Police responded to reports of gunshots. Initial reports indicated shooting at two separate locations; however, further investigation revealed that the disturbance began at the rental property. An altercation inside the house spilled onto the roadway, leading to shots being fired at a parked vehicle on the shoulder of Highway 6 and another vehicle at a nearby gas station.
In the parked vehicle, officers found a man suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim, later identified as 45-year-old Tobenna Obiaga from Halton Region, was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Police have released a photograph of Obiaga, provided by his family, to the media.
Additionally, two individuals in the vehicle at the gas station sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. They were treated at a local hospital and subsequently released. A fourth person, who was injured at the house, received minor injuries not related to gunshots and was also released from the hospital.
Witnesses reported seeing a dark grey sedan fleeing the scene at high speed, but no further suspect description is available at this time. The Hamilton Police Service is actively seeking information from attendees of the party, which had between 60 and 100 guests. Many people left the scene before the police arrived, and officers are urging those individuals to come forward.
The crime scene, described as one of the largest in recent memory by the police, remains under investigation. Highway 6 was closed for several hours on Sunday but has since been reopened. The house and approximately 13 vehicles within the crime scene perimeter are still secured, pending search warrants.
The investigation has faced several challenges due to the sprawling nature of the crime scene and the lack of cooperation from some witnesses. Hamilton Police have been supported by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and Halton Regional Police in managing the scene and traffic enforcement.
The police continue to investigate the origins of the disturbance that led to the fatal shooting. They have confirmed that an assault occurred inside the house involving several people before the altercation moved outside. Detectives in the homicide unit are looking into past incidents at the rental property, which neighbours have reported as a site of frequent noise and parties.
Hamilton Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Homicide Unit. The police emphasize the importance of witness cooperation in solving the case and ensuring justice for the victims.
As the investigation continues, the community remains vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution to this tragic event.