A 34-year-old man is facing serious charges following a dramatic police pursuit in downtown Montreal that involved officers firing rubber bullets and at least one gunshot. The incident, which unfolded near the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), led to the arrest of Kodee McDonald.
Foot Chase and Arrest in Downtown Core
The police intervention began on the morning of Thursday, January 8, 2026, near the busy intersection of Ste-Catherine and Berri Streets. According to authorities and witness videos, Montreal police officers approached Kodee McDonald, who was allegedly holding a knife.
As officers moved in, the suspect fled on foot, initiating a chase. During the pursuit, two police patrol vehicles collided. Authorities deployed multiple methods to subdue the man, including the use of a stun-gun weapon. A police spokesperson confirmed that officers fired rubber bullets and that at least one gunshot was discharged, though it did not strike the suspect.
Court Appearance and Charges Laid
McDonald made a brief court appearance via video conference on Friday, January 9, before Quebec Court Judge Rose-Mélanie Drivod. He has been formally charged with assaulting police officers while carrying a weapon and resisting arrest. An additional charge of violating a probation order was also filed.
During the hearing, McDonald, who was represented by a legal aid lawyer, entered a plea of not guilty and requested that all proceedings be conducted in English. The Crown prosecutor opposed his release, citing McDonald's lengthy criminal record, and requested a prompt mental health evaluation.
Suspect References Witness Video in Court
The court appearance took an unexpected turn when McDonald directly addressed the judge. Appearing confused about his detention, he asked, "You didn't see the video?" This was an apparent reference to witness footage of the incident that circulated in the media.
He later stated, "What did I do? I assaulted a police officer." Judge Drivod scheduled the next court date for Monday, January 12, 2026. The case continues as Montreal police complete their investigation into the chaotic scene that disrupted the city's downtown core.
