Montreal Building Owned by Man with Two Other Properties Hit by Arson Targeted by Gunshots
Three individuals, including two teenagers, were apprehended by Montreal police following an incident where gunshots were discharged on Tuesday night at a property owned by a man whose two buildings were previously targeted in fatal fires.
Authorities revealed that the gunfire struck a structure in Old Montreal belonging to Emile Benamor, who also possesses two other properties in the area that were subject to alleged arson attacks in 2023, resulting in the loss of nine lives.
Benamor is the proprietor of the building on Notre-Dame Street East that was engulfed in flames last week, claiming the lives of a mother and her daughter from France.
Additionally, he owns a historic site on Place D’Youville nearby that was purportedly set ablaze in March 2023, leading to the deaths of seven individuals.
Following the gunfire incident at the Berri Street property, law enforcement apprehended three suspects—aged 17, 19, and 20—in a small white truck as reported by eyewitnesses who observed the vehicle leaving the scene. A firearm was discovered inside the truck.
A legal representative for Benamor has not responded to inquiries, and authorities have not disclosed whether there is any connection between the arrests and the previous fires.
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No injuries were reported from the gunfire incident, which transpired shortly before midnight and left bullet casings strewn across the ground.
Two of the suspects are scheduled to appear in Quebec court today, while the minor will face charges in youth court. The offenses recommended by law enforcement encompass discharging a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm, conspiracy, and violation of probation and conditions.
