Potential 'tragedy' averted at festival during violent night in Hamilton

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Hamilton Police said officers helped prevent a potential “tragedy” after a man was charged and a firearm with a high-capacity magazine was allegedly seized at the Winona Peach Festival.

“This took place at a time and location that was filled with hundreds of people, including children and families,” Hamilton Police said in a news release. “As officers approached, bystanders alerted them that one suspect had a firearm.

“The actions of these officers prevented what could have been a significant tragedy.”

Police said they were called Saturday at 9:20 p.m. to the Winona Peach Festival in the east end of Stoney Creek, where there was a fight between two men. Bystanders told police one suspect had a firearm.

A 23-year-old male was arrested and was allegedly found to be in possession of a firearm with a high-capacity magazine and ammunition. He faces numerous charges, including possessing a loaded firearm and possessing a prohibited weapon.

It was among multiple incidents of violence across the Steeltown area overnight that resulted in two shootings and a serious assault as well.

At 10:30 p.m., police were again called to a parking lot near the Winona Peach Festival, where four males were attacking another male with a baseball bat. The suspects fled and the 53-year-old victim was taken to a hospital with serious injuries.

Police continue to search for suspects.

At 11:45 p.m., police were called to a shooting at Peddles tavern at 1490 Barton St. E., where a 20-year-old male and 28-year-old male had non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect is a Black male in his 20s with dreadlocks and a ponytail. He was wearing dark clothing and a hoodie.

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On Sunday at 6 a.m., police responded to shots fired at a nightclub at 33 Bowen St. and located three victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Two males and a female victim were transported to hospital with serious injuries. All victims are in their 20s

The suspect is a white male with blond hair and a light beard. He was wearing a black Blue Jays baseball cap, white shirt and black jeans.

Police said there have been “ongoing issues with licensed establishments in the area.

“Hamilton Police continue to work closely with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario to revoke licences to address the violent incidents at these locations,” police said.

Anyone with information is asked to call the police at at 905-546-2919 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).