Montreal Police Director Fady Dagher reported that a call came in at approximately 11h35 on 22/6 about a person pointing a gun from a Hilton hotel window. Upon the arrival of police, the individual immediately opened fire. The shooting took place in a densely populated Jewish neighborhood, home to many kosher (food prepared according to Jewish dietary laws) restaurants and food markets.

The gunman killed police officer Mohamed Lamine Benredouan, 34. Other officers returned fire, killing the suspect. A civilian, Michael Mizrahi, 68, also died; it is unclear who shot him. A female officer sustained severe injuries and is in stable condition.

Montreal police at the scene of the shooting. *Photo: Canadian Press*

Officer Benredouan had served with the police force since 2021. Dagher stated that this marked the first time in 24 years that a Montreal police officer died in the line of duty. "This is a very, very sad day. It's a nightmare," he told reporters, noting that such shootings are rare in Montreal.

Social media videos showed a shootout between police and the gunman, who wore an olive jacket and khaki pants. The suspect appeared to be shot while adjusting or reloading his weapon.

Jacob Coutu, who worked at a nearby construction site, heard "four or five gunshots." Minutes later, many police officers arrived. Coutu estimated he heard 30 to 40 shots. Frank Vogas, 71, was buying paint in a local store when the shooting began. He described seeing police officers rush in from all directions, guns raised, and instructing everyone in the store to lie on the floor.

Damaged window panes after the shooting. *Photo: Reuters*

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed that he was "horrified" by the violence.

Officials confirmed the incident was not a terrorist attack. Quebec security official Ian Lafreniere declined to comment on the suspect's identity or motive, citing an ongoing investigation.

Canadian media reported that the suspect left a document approximately 100 pages long. In it, he expressed deep hatred for women and identified with the "incel" ideology (involuntary celibate), a community of men who believe they are involuntarily celibate and blame women for their personal misfortunes and societal problems.

Hoang Lan (According to Guardian, CBC)