HAMILTON, ONTARIO — The Hamilton community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 7-year-old Nathanael Selambi, whose body was recovered on Thursday following an extensive search at Binbrook Conservation Area. What began as a desperate effort to locate the missing child ended in tragedy, leaving family, friends, first responders, and the wider community grieving an unimaginable loss.
According to the Hamilton Police Service, Nathanael was reported missing at approximately 3:00 p.m. on Canada Day, July 1, after disappearing while at Binbrook Conservation Area, located at 5050 Harrison Road. His disappearance prompted an immediate and large-scale search involving Hamilton Police, emergency responders, search and rescue teams, volunteers, and community members who worked tirelessly throughout the afternoon, overnight, and into the following day.
The search concluded shortly after 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, when members of the Peel Regional Police Underwater Search and Recovery Unit located Nathanael’s body in the conservation area. Despite the determined efforts of everyone involved, the outcome was one no one had hoped for.
Hamilton Police confirmed that the investigation is being conducted in partnership with the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected, and the child’s death is not being treated as suspicious. Officials have asked the public to respect the family’s privacy and avoid speculation while the investigation and coroner’s review continue.
In a statement following the discovery, Hamilton Police extended their deepest condolences to Nathanael’s family and thanked the many emergency personnel, volunteers, community organizations, and members of the public who assisted in the search. The service also acknowledged the overwhelming support shown by residents who shared Nathanael’s information and remained hopeful throughout the search efforts.
Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath also expressed her sorrow, describing the news as heartbreaking. She offered condolences to Nathanael’s family, classmates, friends, and everyone affected by the tragedy while thanking first responders, volunteers, and community members for their dedication during the search.
The loss of Nathanael has deeply impacted the Hamilton community. Messages of sympathy and support have poured in as residents mourn the young boy and stand alongside his family during this incredibly difficult time. Many have also expressed gratitude to the search teams whose tireless efforts reflected the compassion and unity of the community.
While the search has ended in profound sadness, the response demonstrated the willingness of countless people to come together in the hope of bringing a child safely home. Every volunteer, emergency responder, and community member played an important role in that effort.
As Nathanael Selambi’s loved ones face the difficult days ahead, they remain in the thoughts and prayers of many across Hamilton and beyond. His memory will be cherished by those who knew and loved him, and his passing serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life.
May Nathanael Selambi rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the support and compassion surrounding them during this time of profound grief.