Hamilton police investigate murder in Westdale

Hamilton police say the city’s 13th homicide of 2020 was a stabbing in the Westdale area on Thursday night.

The victim is a 34-year-old male who was stabbed near Main Street West and Haddon Avenue South, according to investigators.

Detectives say the man’s fiancée found him injured in the backyard of a residence. It’s believed he had just returned home after finishing some errands in the nearby area.

“I don’t know what specifically he was doing upon his return. I believe that he was attempting to go back to the home,” said Det. Sgt. Jim Callender.

Officers arrived at the scene around 8:30 p.m. and the victim was subsequently transported to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries, according to investigators.

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“The victim was located by residents of the home in the backyard,” Callender said.

“He was alone at the time and he was found shortly thereafter the stabbing.”

Callender identified the deceased as Michael Gallo and says he was known to police having “interactions” with officers in the past.

He was also a father to a brand new son, according to police.

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A man of interest has been identified by investigators who say they would like to speak to the individual described as five foot nine inches with a slender build wearing a gray hoodie with black sleeves with dark pants. He was also wearing a blue surgical mask.

“This person is not a suspect in this case,” said Callender. “We are just looking to identify who that person was and speak with them regarding their reason for being in that area.”

Anyone with information on the incident or who may have witnessed a disturbance in the area are encouraged to call Hamilton police at 905-546-3874

Anonymous tips can be left with Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.