The Montreal police arson unit has launched an investigation after a restaurant in the Villeray district was intentionally set ablaze in the early hours of Christmas Day. The incident forced the evacuation of approximately ten people from residential units located above the commercial space.
Early Morning Blaze Triggers Emergency Response
According to police spokesperson Jeanne Drouin, the emergency call came in at around 3:45 a.m. on December 25. The report concerned a fire at a mixed-use building on St-Dominique Street near Liège Street. Upon arrival, officers confirmed the fire was active within the restaurant and immediately proceeded to evacuate the building's upstairs apartments.
The Montreal fire department was quick to the scene and successfully extinguished the flames. Authorities confirmed that no one was injured during the evacuation or firefighting efforts.
Suspects Sought After Targeted Attack
Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate this was a deliberate act. Police believe one or more suspects broke a window to gain access and start the fire before fleeing the area prior to the arrival of first responders.
Drouin stated that the damage was contained primarily to the restaurant. The apartments and their residents did not suffer physical harm, and overall structural damage to the building is considered minor.
Investigation Ongoing, No Arrests Made
The case was handed over to the police department's specialized arson unit. Investigators secured the scene for a detailed forensic analysis planned for later in the day. A key part of the probe will involve reviewing footage from surveillance cameras in the vicinity to identify the perpetrators.
As of 7:30 a.m. on Christmas morning, no arrests had been made. The search for those responsible continues as Montreal police work to determine a motive for the holiday morning attack.
