A Montreal police officer was killed Monday morning in a targeted shooting in the Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood, marking the first fatal shooting of an officer in the city in 24 years. The suspect, who authorities believe espoused incel ideology, was also killed after a shootout with police.
Attack Details and Casualties
The gunman opened fire in a residential area, prompting a shootout with police that left at least two dead. The fallen officer was identified as Mohamed Lamine Benredouane, 34, who had served with the Montreal Police Service since 2021. Quebec Domestic Security Minister Ian Lafrenière confirmed this was the first fatal shooting of an officer in Montreal in 24 years.
Residents of the diverse Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood, which includes areas with deep Jewish roots, were ordered to shelter in place for hours as authorities searched for an “armed and dangerous suspect.” The suspect was later confirmed dead. More than two dozen gunshots were heard in a video of the incident verified by CNN.
Investigation and Motive
Police are examining a document over 100 pages long believed to have been written by the gunman. According to law enforcement sources, the document espouses incel (involuntary celibate) ideology, a misogynistic belief system linked to several violent attacks in recent years.
The shooting shattered the tranquility of the neighborhood and paralyzed the city for hours as families ran for cover. The investigation is ongoing.
