Man suffers life-altering injuries after assault in central Hamilton

A 45-year-old man is suffering from life-threatening injuries following an assault in central Hamilton late Sunday night.

Officers were called shortly after 10 p.m. to the area of East Avenue North and Robert Street, where they found the man with life-altering injuries.

Paramedics then transported him to the Hamilton General Hospital.

Some nearby residents say they heard the fight before a slew of police officers responded.

“There were a bunch of cop cars – maybe six or seven of them, and paramedics. I just basically saw the police taping it all off,” said nearby resident Aaron Brady.

Hamilton police say they are not releasing any details regarding the assault, but noted that there was no weapon involved.

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Investigators have arrested and charged a 43-year-old man with aggravated assault.

On Monday, the accused appeared in court where he identified himself as Mike Tootoosis.

Hamilton resident Aaron Brady told CHCH News that Tootoosis is a carpenter who lives in a building that provides housing for Indigenous peoples.

“He’s usually a very teddy-bear loving kind of guy,” Brady said.

“He helps out the seniors here with their walkers and wheelchairs. If you ask him to build something, he’s usually the kind of guy that will just do anything for you.”

Any witnesses with information or nearby residents who have security footage capturing suspicious behaviour are asked to contact detectives at 905-546-4725.

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