Montreal police have confirmed the city's first homicide of 2026, following the death of a woman who was pushed from a third-storey balcony in the Mercier—Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough on New Year's Day.
A Fatal New Year's Morning Altercation
The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of January 1. According to authorities and witness accounts, a violent altercation took place on a balcony at an address on Ste-Catherine Street East, near Jeanne-d'Arc Avenue, at approximately 8:15 a.m.
Neighbours reported seeing a man push a 31-year-old woman from the third-floor balcony. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene, where they found the victim unconscious on the sidewalk below. She was transported to hospital with critical, life-threatening injuries.
Arrest and Charges Following the Incident
Officers arrested a 31-year-old man at the scene. Montreal police spokesperson Manuel Couture stated that the suspect appeared in court and is currently facing a charge of aggravated assault. The charge is expected to be upgraded following the victim's death.
The suspect and victim were known to each other, and the incident is not believed to be random. The investigation by the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) is ongoing as they piece together the events leading to the fatal push.
A Somber Start to the Year
The woman succumbed to her injuries on Monday, January 5, 2026. Her death marks a grim milestone for Montreal, officially registering as the first homicide on SPVM territory for the new year.
This event has sent shockwaves through the Mercier—Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community, prompting an outpouring of concern and highlighting ongoing issues related to domestic violence and public safety. Local residents have expressed their horror at the violence that unfolded in their neighbourhood.
The case now moves forward through the justice system, as prosecutors prepare to amend the charges against the accused in light of the victim's death. The SPVM continues its investigation, interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence.
