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In Hamilton, Ontario, a 12-year-old boy has been charged with multiple offenses after he and an 11-year-old accomplice allegedly

Published July 8, 2026 at 6:50 PM UTC

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In Hamilton, Ontario, a 12-year-old boy has been charged with multiple offenses after he and an 11-year-old accomplice allegedly broke into a Canadian Tire store and stole bear spray, which was later used in an assault on an eight-year-old child. The incident occurred on July 7, 2026, when police responded to reports of an assault with a weapon in the area of Upper Ottawa Street and Rymal Road. Upon arrival, officers discovered that the eight-year-old victim had been bear-sprayed by two male youths. The suspects, aged 11 and 12, were apprehended nearby. Further investigation revealed that the duo had forcibly entered the Canadian Tire store earlier that day, stealing a quantity of bear spray. Under Canadian law, individuals under 12 cannot be criminally charged; therefore, the 11-year-old was released into the care of a parent. The 12-year-old faces several charges, including break and enter, possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, assault with a weapon, administering a noxious thing, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and carrying a concealed weapon. Additionally, the 12-year-old is linked to a break-in at a vape store on July 1, 2026, where thousands of dollars' worth of vape products were stolen. The investigation into the vape store break-in is ongoing, with authorities believing that additional suspects were involved. The identities of both youths are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act and cannot be released. Hamilton police continue to address incidents involving youth violence through targeted enforcement, school partnerships, and community engagement aimed at preventing such occurrences and increasing awareness of the risks and legal consequences associated with carrying and using bear spray.