Fundraiser launched for Hamilton murder victim’s family

A fundraiser has been launched for the family of a man who was shot to death last weekend in Hamilton.

Daniel Musafiri, 29, was fatally shot in the chest near Queen Street and York Boulevard at around 11 p.m. on Dec. 29. The Hamilton man was still alive when first responders found him, but he later succumbed to his injuries in hospital.

When police confirmed Musafiri’s death the next day, they also confirmed multiple suspects were seen fleeing the area. However, they did not provide any descriptions. They also did not confirm if the attack was targeted or random.

A GoFundMe was soon set up in Musafiri’s honour to cover his funeral expenses.

“Those who had the privilege of knowing and loving Daniel know him to be generous, loving and full of life. Daniel will forever be known for his bright golden smile and energy that lit up the room every time he walked in,” wrote organizer Aicha Fernandes.

“At this time the family is asking if we as a community and those who loved Sawa can come together to help with the funeral expenses. His departure was extremely unexpected and anything will help to cover the cost,” she continued.

Musafiri’s family has lamented his loss with brother Mwalimu Musafiri writing on Facebook, “Just too young to be gone. In the most cruel way, shot like an animal and left to bleed out and die. May your soul rest in God’s eternal paradise. Justice may not bring you back, but you meant a lot to us and they have caused a void. We deserve closure.”

Daniel Musafiri originally hailed from the Congo, according to his Facebook site, and moved to Hamilton by the time he attended high school. His was the 11th and final murder in Hamilton of 2023.

The fundraiser has gathered $8,090 of its $15,000 goal.

Anyone with information about Musafiri’s murder can call Det. Dave Tsuchida at 905-546-4123 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.