SHOOTING: Montreal Police Investigate Rivière-des-Prairies Incident on Perras Blvd
MONTREAL — A sense of shock and unease has gripped the Rivière-des-Prairies community following a violent shooting that occurred Friday evening. At approximately 6:00 p.m., shots rang out on Perras Boulevard near the intersection of St-Jean-Baptiste Boulevard, prompting a swift response from local law enforcement and emergency services.
Montreal Police (SPVM) have confirmed that they were called to the scene shortly after reports of gunfire in the neighborhood. Upon arrival, officers found evidence of a shooting, including bullet casings scattered on the pavement and a vehicle with apparent gunshot damage. Unconfirmed sources have indicated that at least one individual was injured, though authorities have yet to release details regarding the number of victims or the extent of any injuries.
The area was quickly cordoned off with yellow police tape as investigators began canvassing the scene. Forensic teams were seen documenting evidence well into the evening hours while patrol officers questioned potential witnesses and residents in the vicinity. Police helicopters were reported hovering above as part of an aerial search for any suspects who may have fled the scene.
Local residents expressed fear and frustration as the typically quiet stretch of Perras Blvd turned into the site of an active crime scene. Many described hearing loud bangs followed by the sounds of screeching tires. “It was terrifying,” said one nearby resident. “I was just sitting down for dinner when I heard what sounded like five or six gunshots in rapid succession. This kind of violence doesn’t belong here.”
SPVM spokesperson Jean-Pierre Brabant addressed the media later in the evening, confirming that the incident is being treated as a targeted shooting. “At this time, we believe this was not a random act. Our investigators are actively working to determine the motive behind this shooting, and we are urging anyone who may have seen something to come forward.”
As of now, no arrests have been made, and police are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences. Brabant emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving such crimes. “We rely on the eyes and ears of the public to bring justice to these situations. If anyone has dashcam footage, or even the smallest detail that could help us, we urge them to contact SPVM or submit an anonymous tip through Info-Crime Montreal.”
The shooting has reignited concerns over rising gun violence in certain pockets of the city. Montreal, while generally considered a safe urban center by North American standards, has seen a number of high-profile shootings in recent months, many of which are believed to be tied to organized crime or gang activity. City officials and police leadership have repeatedly called for stronger federal measures to control illegal firearms and bolster community policing strategies.
Meanwhile, residents of Rivière-des-Prairies are left grappling with a shaken sense of security. Local councillors and community leaders have pledged to work with law enforcement to address safety concerns and restore confidence among residents. Several neighborhood organizations have already announced plans for community meetings and safety forums in the coming days.
As night fell over the quiet Montreal suburb, flashing lights from police cruisers continued to illuminate the scene — a somber reminder of how quickly peace can be shattered by violence. The SPVM continues to investigate and has promised updates as more information becomes available.
Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Montreal police at 514-393-1133 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
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