Hamilton police are investigating a Tuesday afternoon stabbing at a park on the Mountain that left a secondary school student injured.
The incident happened just after 3 p.m. near Arcadia Drive at Billy Sherring Park just north of Rymal Road East and Upper Sherman Avenue.
Hamilton paramedics said a 17-year-old boy was sent to hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The youth has since been deemed to be in stable condition and remains in hospital as of Wednesday with serious injuries.
Police later said in a news release that they believe the incident was targeted and one or more suspects fled prior to officers arriving.
The principal of St. Jean de Brébeuf Catholic Secondary School, located near Billy Sherring Park, confirmed in a letter that the victim is a student at the school.
“The incident took place off school property on the park grounds. At this time, we are unaware if the student was at the school earlier in the day to return school items,” the letter read.
“The incident is currently under investigation by Hamilton Police Service. St. Jean de Brébeuf CSS is cooperating fully with investigators and will assist in any way we can…
“I would ask that you please keep the student and his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
A 17-year-old male has been arrested and is facing three charges in connection with the incident including assault with a weapon and assault causing bodily harm.
The accused is expected in court on Friday.
Anyone with information on the stabbing is asked to contact police at 905-546-3886 or 905-546-8965. Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.