Unsolved Homicide

Jahmal Thomas, 39, of Brantford, and Rhonda Homsombath, 25, of Hamilton, lost their lives in a shooting at Urban Lounge on March 8, 2020. Two other people were seriously injured. Hamilton Police continue to seek answers and identify the person responsible.

Shortly after 5:00 a.m., a man entered the lounge, located in the basement behind Sam’s Tavern on Barton Street East, and fired multiple shots. Officers arrived to find four people with gunshot wounds. All were transported to hospital, where Jahmal and Rhonda died.

Earlier that evening, individuals at the lounge had attended a memorial celebration for homicide victim Carel Douse at Zen Lounge on John Street South. After Zen Lounge closed, the gathering moved to Urban Lounge.

The motive for the shooting remains unknown. Police have not established a relationship between the victims.

The suspect is described as:

• Black male with a dark complexion
• Thin build
• Possibly in his early 30s at the time
• Approximately 5’10” tall
• Believed to have short braids
• Wearing dark jeans or pants and a tracksuit-style zip-up jacket

The suspect fled in an unknown direction.

Investigators urge anyone who attended the gathering, witnessed the shooting or has information about the suspect to come forward. Your information could help bring answers to Jahmal’s and Rhonda’s families.

You do not need to have witnessed the crime or be certain your information is significant. Something you saw, heard or remember could help investigators find answers for a family still waiting.