At least two killed in shooting near Montreal Jewish sites

Montreal Shooting Leaves One Officer, Civilian Dead; Suspect Neutralized

A Montreal Police officer and a civilian were killed during a shooting in the Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood on June 22, 2026, according to the Sûreté du Québec (SPVM). The suspect, described as armed and dangerous, was later neutralized. Initial reports indicated a civilian, Rabbi Michael Moshe Mizrahi, a local Chabad center member, had died, but conflicting accounts later emerged, with ZAKA and a Chabad source confirming he was undergoing emergency surgery. SPVM Chief Fady Dagher stated the investigation remains ongoing, with no evidence of a second suspect.

Shooting Details and Community Impact

The attack occurred around 11:30 a.m. near the Hilton Hotel, a heavily Jewish area with kosher restaurants, schools, and community centers. Witnesses reported 20–30 shots fired. Videos from the scene showed a Caucasian gunman in camouflage and an SKS rifle on the ground, alongside two bodies. Jewish businesses and schools in the area were placed on lockdown. The location’s proximity to the Chabad center heightened concerns about targeted violence.

“This was a nightmare, the worst sort of nightmare,” Dagher said, noting it was the first police death in Montreal in 24 years. The victim, identified as a police officer, was in critical condition but later stabilized. The civilian’s identity remains undisclosed, despite confirmation he was a local rabbi.

Manifesto and Suspect Motives

Local media reported the suspect prepared a manifesto before the attack, which was sent to media outlets. SPVM confirmed possession of the document but declined to detail its contents. Dagher stated the investigation is exploring whether the attack was an ambush or linked to a broader network. No official motive has been released, but the manifesto’s existence raises questions about ideological or personal grievances.

“We have no information that there is another suspect,” Dagher said. The SPVM has not commented on the manifesto’s potential connection to anti-Semitic rhetoric, though the area’s Jewish community has expressed heightened anxiety.

Community and Political Reactions

The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) issued a statement expressing solidarity with victims and police. “We are wholeheartedly with the law enforcement forces who risk their lives every day to ensure our safety,” the group said. Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada offered condolences to the officer’s family and called for unity amid the tragedy.

Conflicting reports about Rabbi Mizrahi’s status sparked confusion. ZAKA, a Jewish emergency response organization, initially denied his death, later clarifying he was in surgery. A Chabad source confirmed ZAKA’s claims to *The Jerusalem Post*, underscoring the challenges of verifying details in real time.

What Happens Next? Investigations and Security Measures

SPVM has not ruled out the possibility of a wider network, but Dagher emphasized no evidence supports this. The department is working with federal agencies to analyze the manifesto and trace the suspect’s background. Security in the Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood remains heightened, with local leaders urging vigilance.

“This incident underscores the need for community-police collaboration,” said a spokesperson for the Montreal Jewish Community Council. “We must remain united against violence, no matter the source.”

Did You Know?

The Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood is home to one of Montreal’s largest Jewish populations, with over 100,000 residents. The Chabad center there has hosted events for decades, including holiday celebrations and youth programs.

FAQ: Key Questions About the Montreal Shooting

How many people were injured or killed?

One police officer and one civilian were confirmed dead. A second police officer was in critical condition but later stabilized.

Who was the civilian victim?

The civilian, Rabbi Michael Moshe Mizrahi, is a local Chabad center member. His status was initially reported as dead but later corrected to undergoing emergency surgery.

What is the suspect’s status?

The suspect was neutralized. SPVM has not released his identity or confirmed a motive, but a manifesto was found at the scene.

Pro Tip: Staying Informed During Crises

Follow updates from trusted sources like SPVM, *The Montreal Gazette*, and *The Jerusalem Post*. Avoid unverified social media claims, which can spread misinformation quickly.

Call to Action

Have thoughts on the Montreal shooting’s impact on community safety? Share your perspective in the comments. For more on police response strategies, explore our article Understanding Police Response in Urban Shootings.