Crash that killed 15-year-old boy is tied to beef between rival schools: police

Hamilton police have made an arrest in connection to a fatal crash that killed a 15-year-old boy on Friday.

Witnesses initially reported seeing two or three vehicles “racing” eastbound on the Lincoln Alexander Parkway, near the Upper Gage Avenue overpass around 2:30 p.m.

It is alleged that two drivers lost control of the cars and crashed.

One vehicle was able to regain control, but the other – a Toyota RAV4 – rolled off the roadway a few times. 

As the SUV was rolling, police say one or more occupants were ejected from the vehicle.

Three people were transported to a hospital with serious injuries. One of the injured parties was a 15-year-old boy who was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.

Investigators say a black Ford Focus and a silver Infiniti were allegedly chasing the Toyota RAV4 in the parking lot at St. Jean de Brebeauf Secondary School moments before the fatal crash.

Police believe the collision is connected to “a series of escalating incidents” between rival students at Nora Frances Henderson Secondary School.

On Sunday, 18-year-old Vicenzino Stumpo of Hamilton was arrested in connection to the crash. He is facing two charges, including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death, as well as bodily harm.

Stumpo appeared in court on Saturday. He is scheduled to return for a bail hearing on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

Hamilton Police said in a statement on Monday that they are “working with both school communities to ensure the safety of staff and students.” 

Officers will patrol the area between both schools on Tuesday to “maintain a secure environment” and address any concerns.

Investigators say they are still searching for the silver Infiniti and encourage the driver to turn himself in.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police.