Quebec City Police Investigate Fatal Fire as Homicide
Police in Quebec City have launched a homicide investigation following a deadly apartment fire in the St-Sauveur neighbourhood. The victim, identified as Ahmed Yassir Ismaili-Alaoui, 42, was found unconscious in the burning building on Saturday evening and later pronounced dead.
Emergency Response to St-Mathias Street Blaze
The incident unfolded on January 6, 2024, when multiple 911 calls reported smoke and flames coming from a second-floor apartment on St-Mathias Street. Emergency crews arrived at the scene shortly after 6:42 p.m. Firefighters discovered the unconscious man inside the apartment and immediately began resuscitation efforts before paramedics took over.
Despite their attempts to save him, Ismaili-Alaoui was declared dead at the hospital. Authorities confirmed the fire was brought under control by approximately 7:40 p.m., with damage confined to the single apartment unit.
Police Declare Fire as Arson, Death as Homicide
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Quebec City police service revealed crucial findings. "All of the evidence gathered by investigators at the scene indicates that the victim, Mr. Ahmed Yassir Ismaili-Alaoui, 42, was the victim of a homicide," the statement read. Police are officially treating the blaze as an act of arson.
Investigators are now urging anyone with information related to the incident or the victim to come forward. They have provided two confidential tip lines:
- For Quebec City residents: 418-641-AGIR (2447)
- For those outside Quebec City: 1-888-641-AGIR
When calling, individuals should reference the case number QUE-260103-229. Police have assured the public that all information received will be handled with strict confidentiality as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
