Montreal police say they have arrested a 33-year-old man in connection with the killing of Leila Ben Salem, a 45-year-old Canada Revenue Agency employee found dead inside a downtown apartment in September.

Who was arrested in the Ville-Marie killing?

Youcef Moussaoui was arrested Thursday afternoon in downtown Montreal, according to the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal. Police had issued an arrest warrant for him, the SPVM said in a news release.

Moussaoui is expected to appear in a Montreal court Friday to be charged with first-degree murder, police said.

The SPVM said the killing was not a case of intimate partner violence. Police have not disclosed a suspected motive, saying the evidence and alleged motive will be made public during the judicial process.

How was Leila Ben Salem found?

The case began on Sept. 22, when a 911 caller requested a wellness check shortly before 3:30 p.m. at an apartment building on René-Lévesque Boulevard, near Saint-Christophe Street.

Officers found the 45-year-old woman unresponsive and she was pronounced dead at the scene. At the time, reports said she had been taking part in a virtual meeting with colleagues.

The Union of Taxation Employees identified the victim as Leila Ben Salem, a Canada Revenue Agency employee. Her death was the 19th homicide on the SPVM's territory this year.

What reaction followed the killing?

The death drew condolences from federal leaders. Prime Minister Mark Carney paid tribute to the "esteemed" public servant at the start of Question Period, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also paid his respects in Parliament.

  • Police have not released a suspected motive
  • A warrant was issued before Thursday's arrest
  • A court appearance is scheduled for Friday

FAQ

When did the killing take place?

The woman's body was found on Sept. 22, 2026, after a 911 caller requested a wellness check at an apartment building on René-Lévesque Boulevard. Police said she was pronounced dead at the scene.

What charge does the suspect face?

Montreal police say Youcef Moussaoui is expected to appear in court Friday to be charged with first-degree murder. Police said the killing was not related to intimate partner violence.