Montreal police chief Fady Dagher called a shooting that killed a police officer and a civilian a “nightmare” on June 22, 2026, after the suspect was neutralized, according to CBC. The incident occurred near Jewish community sites in Côte-des-Neiges, where Rabbi Michael Moshe Mizrahi, a local Chabad leader, was among the dead. The suspect, described as Caucasian with a rifle, was found face-down with a manifesto, per The Jerusalem Post. Police confirmed the threat was contained, but investigations into motives and potential networks remain ongoing.
Conflict Escalation: What Each Source Reports
CBC reported that Montreal police chief Fady Dagher confirmed the “immediate threat has been neutralized” and that the “main suspect has been neutralized,” though motives remain unclear. Dagher described the event as a “tragedy. It’s a nightmare,” emphasizing the “extraordinary work” of officers who faced gunfire at the Hilton Garden Inn on Décarie Boulevard. The Jerusalem Post provided additional context, noting the suspect had sent a manifesto to media outlets before the attack, which police now possess. Dagher stated, “We have no information that there is another suspect,” while acknowledging the investigation is “still ongoing.” The suspect’s weapon, an SKS rifle, was recovered at the scene, according to the Post.
Victims and Aftermath: Details from Both Outlets
The civilian victim, Rabbi Michael Moshe Mizrahi, was identified as a member of the Chabad center, with The Jerusalem Post reporting he may have been killed by crossfire during the shootout. CBC confirmed a male police officer and a female officer were injured, with the latter now in stable condition. Dagher noted it was “24 years since we lost a police officer in Montreal,” a stark reminder of the rarity of such fatalities. The Jewish community, including the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), expressed grief, with CIJA stating, “thoughts first go to all those affected by this incident, as well as to all the police officers mobilized to ensure the safety of citizens.” Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada extended condolences to the officer’s family, calling the incident “the worst sort of nightmare.”
Investigation and Context: Unanswered Questions
The attack unfolded in a heavily Jewish neighborhood, with kosher restaurants, schools, and community centers nearby. SPVM issued an urgent alert, urging residents to shelter indoors as 20–30 shots were fired. The Jerusalem Post highlighted that Jewish businesses and schools were placed on lockdown, underscoring the area’s sensitivity. Dagher did not confirm the civilian’s identity or how he died, despite reports linking him to Chabad. The suspect’s manifesto, described as “preparing before opening fire,” remains a focal point for investigators. While CBC emphasized the officer’s critical condition stabilizing, The Jerusalem Post noted the “worst sort of nightmare” felt by the community, with CIJA calling for solidarity with law enforcement.
“It’s a tragedy. It’s a nightmare,” Dagher said, reflecting the gravity of the moment. The incident has reignited debates about security in Montreal’s Jewish quarters, with officials urging transparency as the investigation unfolds.
Find more reporting in our World section.
