Unsolved Homicide

Hamilton Police continue to seek information about the homicide of 40-year-old Rigoberto Mendez, a husband and father of two young children.

Just before 3:00 a.m. on December 29, 2007, Rigoberto was found dead on the roadway near Barton Street East and Chestnut Avenue in Hamilton. Initially investigated as a fail-to-remain collision, witness information later indicated he had been assaulted and left unconscious in the roadway before being struck by a passing vehicle.

Investigators believe Rigoberto was walking to a friend’s home when he became involved in a confrontation with one of three men near the intersection. One man reportedly assaulted him. The other two did not participate in the assault and were seen running through a nearby alley.

Police do not believe the driver who struck Rigoberto was connected to the assault. Investigators also received information about someone washing blood from a vehicle at a local car wash.

Rigoberto came to Canada from Guatemala in 1992 and had worked at a Stoney Creek metal company for eight years. His family continues to seek answers about his death.

Anyone with information about the assault, the three men, the vehicle or the reported car wash incident is asked to contact Hamilton Police.

With the passage of time, someone who was previously reluctant to speak may now feel ready to come forward. Even the smallest detail could help investigators determine what happened and bring answers to Rigoberto’s family.

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.