Deadly Shooting in Montreal Leaves Two Dead, Including Police Officer
On Monday, June 22, 2026, a violent shooting erupted in downtown Montreal’s Côte-des-Neiges district, leaving two people dead—including a police officer—and two others injured. The incident unfolded around 11:30 a.m. at a newly developed commercial center near the Hilton Hotel on the corner of De Courtrai Avenue and Trans Island Avenue.
What Happened During the Attack?
According to eyewitness accounts and videos shared on social media, the suspected shooter, identified as 25-year-old Seth Hatfield, opened fire shortly after police responded to 911 calls reporting an armed man seen in the window of the Hilton Hotel. In the brief but intense exchange of gunfire—lasting no more than five minutes—Hatfield fatally shot 34-year-old police officer Mohamed Lamine Benredouane and 68-year-old civilian Michael Moshe Mizrahi. Another officer was seriously injured but is now in stable condition, while a fourth person sustained minor injuries.
One video captured at least 30 shots being fired. In another clip, a downed officer can be seen attempting to crawl away after being shot. Witnesses described scenes of panic as people fled into nearby stores and parking lots, with some hiding under cars for safety. Valerie Krief, who was leaving a dentist appointment with her son, initially mistook the gunfire for construction noise until she saw glass shattering across the street.
Police Response and Lockdown
Montreal police quickly cordoned off the area, prompting a citywide lockdown that lasted until approximately 3:15 p.m. Authorities initially feared a possible second shooter, but later confirmed Hatfield acted alone. He was killed by police at the scene.
During the lockdown, residents like Ben Clerkin—who had been in the Hilton lobby moments after the shooting—were unable to return to their families despite being able to contact them by phone. Clerkin described seeing the shooter’s body lying dead on the floor as he exited through a side door.
Aftermath and Community Impact
Videos from the aftermath show police officers securing nearby businesses, including Supermarché PA, where shoppers were seen hiding in aisles as officers swept the premises with guns drawn. The owner of Deli 770, Yosef Hadad, recounted hearing bullets whiz past his balcony and watching the officer fall just meters away.
The tragedy has reignited calls for stricter gun control in Montreal. Mayor Valérie Plante expressed condolences to the victims’ families and urged federal action to prevent future incidents.
