A Longueuil man was taken into custody Wednesday morning at CF Fairview Pointe Claire, a shopping center in Montreal's West Island, in connection with alleged firearm possession and death threats. The arrest drew Montreal and Longueuil police to the mall around 11 a.m., and officers in tactical gear were among those who responded.
What do police say happened?
According to Montreal police spokesperson Raphaël Bergeron, the arrest was carried out with Longueuil police. Officers also identified a vehicle tied to the investigation, and the case remains open.
Police have not released the man's age or described what led to the arrest. He is in custody. It was not immediately clear whether any weapons were recovered.
Longueuil police told CTV News that investigators were questioning the suspect to understand the context of the statements and to assess how serious the threats were. Officers set up a perimeter so they could search a vehicle believed to be connected.
Why was Interpol involved?
Longueuil police said they were called to assist Interpol in locating a suspect, which is unusual for a local shopping-center operation and helps explain the scale of the police presence. The brief does not say what the international link was or why the agency took an interest.
How do threat cases usually unfold?
Arrests over threats often end with questions rather than quick answers. In a separate case reported this week, a Minneapolis man called 911 claiming he had built bombs and planned to attack the Mall of America and schools; a search of his home turned up electronics but no explosives, according to a court document, and he was released. Court records list hearings for November.
In Canada, a 51-year-old man was recently arrested over alleged emailed death threats against Prime Minister Mark Carney, according to reports. That case drew attention because the accused had a prior arson conviction and was on probation.
What happens next?
Montreal police say the investigation is ongoing. No charges have been announced in the Fairview case, and police have not said what the suspect is expected to face in court. Shoppers should expect the case to develop slowly as investigators review the vehicle and the statements at issue.
FAQ
Was anyone hurt at the mall?
Police have not reported any injuries in connection with Wednesday's arrest.
Has the suspect been charged?
No charges have been announced. He remains in custody while the investigation continues.
