Montreal QC ☕ The morning chat
Good morning, Montreal.
We start with a story that strikes at trust in the city’s police, as an SPVM officer finds himself at the centre of an investigation for allegedly deleting evidence. There’s also a win that feels good for the Canadiens, and some practical reminders for the upcoming Halloween. Not to mention a new immersive experience that sends shivers through a well-known park.
Main Story
SPVM officer allegedly erased evidence from domestic violence victim
An officer from SPVM’s Station 39 has been reassigned to administrative duties after being suspected of misconduct and obstruction of justice. According to Radio-Canada, the officer allegedly destroyed video evidence that was on the phone of a domestic violence victim, a case dating back to 2025.
The SPVM confirmed that the individual under investigation has been reassigned to administrative functions, with no public contact, for the duration of the investigation. The allegation reportedly came to light during the inquiry into Station 39, in Montreal-North, which was disbanded last summer over allegations of racist behaviour. Authorities say the report “comes from within the organization.”
Meanwhile, an officer from Station 21, downtown, has been suspended for several weeks following an investigation into potentially discriminatory and racist acts linked to the allegations against Station 39. Station 21 is already in the spotlight this month over allegations that an officer urinated on a homeless person.
The SPVM is in communication with the DPCP to determine next steps. SPVM director Fady Dagher is to hold a press conference Friday at 1 p.m.
At Home
Montreal blue-collar workers ratify new six-year collective agreement
Montreal’s blue-collar workers have ratified a deal with the city administration, securing a 23% wage increase over the new six-year contract. The news secures municipal services for years to come.
Canadiens extend streak with fourth straight win
Cole Caufield and Alex Newhook each scored two goals, leading the Canadiens to a 5-2 win over the Dallas Stars on Thursday night. Jakub Dobes made 17 saves, earning his first win since the season opener. The Canadiens have won their last four games, all on the road, and continue without captain Nick Suzuki, who is injured. Next game: Saturday at home against Pittsburgh.
New immersive experience at Parc Jean-Drapeau
“Lune Noire: La Noce des canaux” is an immersive experience taking place on the canals of Île Notre-Dame. Visitors board a pontoon and follow a mysterious boatman through the Floralies Gardens, where the story of a forgotten wedding unfolds. Legend has it that every century, when the Black Moon rises, an invitation resurfaces. The park thus celebrates autumn and Halloween with a touch of mystery.
Châteauguay: seniors lose their community centre
The Centre 55 Plus in Châteauguay was evacuated Monday due to structural concerns. Hundreds of members, including about 300 regular participants, are left without their gathering place. The organization offers 31 activities, from billiards to line dancing. Members are trying to maintain social ties, with some groups already finding alternatives.
Worth Noting
Canada-EU summit continues in Montreal without Quebec premier
Quebec Premier Paul St-Pierre Plamondon is not participating in the Canada-European Union summit being held in Montreal. He says he has not had the opportunity to speak nor the right to negotiate on behalf of Quebec. It is the province’s chief diplomat, Pascal Paradis, who represents Quebec. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen insists Canada become an “associate member” of the European Union, a phrase that reportedly was removed from the joint declaration.
Air Canada lowers forecasts due to fuel costs
Air Canada expects lower profits this year due to soaring fuel prices. The country’s largest airline now projects adjusted earnings between $2.4 and $2.7 billion, compared with a previous forecast of $2.9 to $3.2 billion. In the third quarter, net income attributable to shareholders fell 47% to $139 million, despite record operating revenue of $6.98 billion.
Conservative Party of Quebec unveils shadow cabinet
All elected members of the Conservative Party of Quebec have been assigned national responsibilities as part of the presentation of its shadow cabinet.
Arrest in Drummondville for fatal hit-and-run in British Columbia
Dominic Kavanagh Latreille was arrested in Drummondville on October 14 by the RCMP and the Sûreté du Québec, in connection with a fatal hit-and-run that occurred in June 2025 in Oliver, British Columbia. He appeared in court the next day and was transported to British Columbia.
Practical Corner
A more accessible Halloween for all
More than 200,000 children with disabilities in Quebec could face barriers during trick-or-treating. The Treat Accessibly initiative, in partnership with Maxi, offers 3,100 free lawn signs at 25 stores. The concept: hand out candy and non-edible treats at the end of the driveway rather than at the front door, and display a sign to signal that all children are welcome. A simple way to make the tradition more inclusive.
Costumes and joy for children in hospital
For 20 years, the Spirit of Children charity initiative by Spirit Halloween has helped make hospitals less scary for young patients. At the Montreal Children’s Hospital, mobile trick-or-treat stations are set up for children who cannot leave their beds. Since 2012, more than $400,000 has been raised through community donations.
Coup de Coeur
The story of Spirit of Children, which for two decades has brought a little Halloween magic to hospitalized children, reminds us that even in the darkest moments, a gesture of kindness can make all the difference. It’s also a fine example of how a community can mobilize to offer some comfort to those who need it most.
To Close
We wish you a day that starts well, perhaps with a nice hot coffee to accompany your reading. Whether you’re preparing for Halloween or following the news, we’ll see you tomorrow for a new edition of the morning chat. ☕