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Rabat – A burst of gunfire near a hotel along Montreal’s Décarie corridor turned a routine midday into a scene of panic, leaving a police officer and a civilian dead, while authorities confirmed the suspected gunman was also killed.
The confrontation took place shortly before noon in the Côte-des-Neiges area, one of the city’s busiest districts. Within minutes, the sound of repeated gunshots spread fear among drivers and residents nearby.
“I heard around thirty shots. Bullets passed close to my car,” said Jean-François Lemieux, who drove along the Décarie Expressway at the time.
Early reports indicate that a second police officer remains in critical condition.
Police sources suggest the suspect arrived from Alberta and wore clothing that resembled military gear. Officers shot and killed him during the exchange. Investigators have yet to establish a clear motive, and officials urge caution as facts continue to emerge.
Before the shooting, thousands of residents received an emergency alert warning of an “armed and dangerous” individual in the area. The message led to immediate lockdown measures. Authorities sealed off a wide perimeter, and many people sought shelter wherever they could.
“People feel afraid. Everyone tells each other to hide,” said Karine Plis, who lives near the scene
Nearby businesses shut their doors, while residents stayed inside. The MADA Community Center reported that hotel guests and passersby rushed toward the building in distress after fleeing the area. The organization described scenes of fear as people sought safety.
Images shared online show a large police deployment, with officers surrounding the site and securing nearby streets.
Authorities closed part of Highway 15 shortly after 12:25 p.m. The Oratory of Saint Joseph also evacuated as a precaution, although no confirmed gunfire took place there later in the day.
Quebec Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière said the motive remains unknown and warned against premature conclusions.
“These are extremely difficult moments,” he told reporters, his voice breaking as he addressed the loss of the officer.
Police maintain a strong presence in the area as the investigation continues, while the city grapples with the shock of a violent episode that unfolded in broad daylight.
