Hate Crime Unit Investigates Downtown Montreal Assault
The Montreal police service's hate crime unit has launched a public appeal for assistance in identifying three individuals connected to a violent assault that targeted two members of the Black community. The incident occurred on October 12 in the downtown core, near the prominent intersection of Crescent and Sherbrooke Streets.
Details of the Violent Encounter
According to the SPVM, the attack unfolded at approximately 9:15 p.m. The two victims were walking north on Crescent Street when they were confronted by the three suspects at the corner of Sherbrooke Street. The situation escalated rapidly as the suspects began directing racist slurs at the victims.
The confrontation turned physically violent in front of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Police report that the suspects threw the victims to the ground and proceeded to strike and kick them. In a further threatening gesture, one of the assailants, who was carrying a small black cross-body bag, made a move toward it and threatened to stab the victims. Following the assault, the trio fled eastbound along Sherbrooke Street.
Suspect Descriptions and Public Appeal
The SPVM has released detailed descriptions of the three suspects, all estimated to be around 20 years of age. The suspects allegedly told their victims they were of Arab origin. All three were dressed similarly in white T-shirts and black pants and had black hair.
- Suspect 1: Approximately 5'7" and 80 kg (176 lbs). He was wearing a grey shirt over his white T-shirt.
- Suspect 2: Approximately 5'11" and 80 kg. He was carrying the small black cross-body bag.
- Suspect 3: Approximately 5'7" and 70 kg (154 lbs). A distinct feature was that he was wearing one black shoe and one white shoe.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The public can contact 911, their local police station, or provide information anonymously and confidentially to Info-Crime Montréal at 514-393-1133 or via their website. A reward of up to $5,000 may be available for information that leads to an arrest, subject to certain conditions.
Combating Hate Crimes in the Community
In their statement, the Montreal police reiterated the critical importance of reporting hate crimes. A crime is classified as a hate crime when it is motivated—or there is a reasonable suspicion it is motivated—by hatred toward a person's race, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other similar factors.
Police emphasize that anyone who is a victim of or witnesses a hate crime should immediately call 911 or file a report online. This case underscores ongoing community concerns and the police force's dedicated efforts to address bias-motivated violence.
