16-year-old boy killed in shooting at Hamilton mall, 2 armed suspects sought

A Hamilton police cruiser is seen in this undated file photo. (CTV News Toronto)

A 16-year-old boy is dead, and two armed suspects are wanted following a shooting in a downtown Hamilton mall on Friday afternoon.

Hamilton police said officers rushed to Jackson Square shortly after receiving a call for shots fired inside the mall at 5:12 p.m.

When officers arrived, they located a male victim suffering from life-threatening injuries.

Police said he was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The victim has not been identified.

Meanwhile, police said they are looking for two white male suspects believed to be carrying firearms.

The suspects are 19 to 20 years old, with one last seen wearing a grey tracksuit, while the other had on a blue tracksuit

“Do not approach. Call 911 immediately if seen,” police said.

The circumstances surrounding the shooting are not immediately clear.

They are asking the public to stay out of the area while the investigation is ongoing. Police said road closures are in effect between King Street, James Street and MacNab Street.

Hamilton Centre MP Aslam Rana said the shooting was “completely unacceptable.”

“My thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy,” Rana said in a post on social media. “I’m grateful to Hamilton Police for their swift response and ongoing efforts to keep our community safe. Please follow their guidance, avoid the area, and report any information immediately.”