A 16-year-old was fatally shot during a moving gun battle involving several vehicles in Hamilton last year, according to the police. Authorities revealed on Friday that the murder of Faizaan Awan from York Region in March 2025 was linked to a dispute between two tow-truck companies. Five individuals connected to the now-closed Provincial Tow in east-end Hamilton have been apprehended and charged with first-degree murder and attempted murder following the execution of five search warrants.
The tragic incident unfolded as Awan was driving a red Acura SUV and got involved in an exchange of gunfire with multiple vehicles. The altercation originated at a towing business that had recently been set on fire, with several individuals guarding the premises before the pursuit began. Awan lost his life just east of Highway 8 and Fruitland Road around 4 a.m., with a white Kia sedan also discovered at the scene after colliding with the Acura.
Emergency services were alerted, and Awan was rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The suspects, ranging in age from 20 to 42, were identified as Mohammad Aburas, Ameer Nabout, Ameen Nabout, Rami Qasem, and Sari Nawabit. It was revealed that all five individuals were associated with Provincial Tow, operated by the Nabout family.
Detective Staff Sergeant Robert Di Ianni disclosed that the fatal incident stemmed from a disagreement between Provincial Tow and another local company based in Hamilton. While the other company wasn’t named, Di Ianni emphasized that the attack was targeted and involved multiple individuals and firearms. The investigation is ongoing, with additional arrests anticipated as more individuals may have been involved in the crime.
Di Ianni extended condolences to Awan’s family and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various municipal police services in assisting with the investigation. The police have urged the public to come forward with any relevant information that could aid in solving the case.