In a disturbing turn of events on Friday afternoon, three individuals sustained injuries following a violent altercation at a mosque in downtown Hamilton, Canada. The incident, which unfolded at approximately 2:15 p.m. local time on May 2, 2025, sent shockwaves through the local Muslim community and prompted a swift response from law enforcement authorities.
According to reports from the Hamilton Police Service, the confrontation began outside the mosque, located on York Boulevard, before spilling into the building itself. Amidst the chaos, three people were stabbed. One victim was rushed to the hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening, while another received urgent care at the scene. A third individual later presented at the hospital with similar non-life-threatening wounds.
Eyewitness accounts and police statements indicate that two suspects initially fled the scene in an unknown direction, with conflicting reports about whether they escaped in one or two vehicles. However, as investigations progressed into the evening, detectives tracked the case to an address on Hamilton Mountain. There, a 40-year-old man, identified as Abdullah Alkhlif from Hamilton, was apprehended and has since been charged with aggravated assault and two counts of assault causing bodily harm.
Crucially, Hamilton police have clarified that the incident is not being treated as a hate-motivated attack. Early findings suggest that the individuals involved were known to each other, and the violence stemmed from a personal dispute rather than any form of targeted hate crime. This assurance comes as a relief to many in the community, especially given the sensitive nature of violence occurring within a place of worship.
The mosque was reportedly hosting a large congregation for prayer at the time of the incident, with the altercation erupting near the shoe area-a spot typically bustling with worshippers. Aslam Rana, the MP-elect for Hamilton Centre, visited the scene in the aftermath and expressed his concern, emphasizing that places of worship should remain sanctuaries of peace and safety for all congregants.
The police investigation remains ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with further information to come forward. Detective Kersgens can be reached at 905-546-3816, and anonymous tips are welcome through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or via their online portal.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and community support, especially in spaces meant for reflection and unity. As the Hamilton community grapples with the aftermath, the hope remains that justice will be served and that such violence will not mar the sanctity of worship in the future.
