Man Arrested Following Altercation at Montreal-Area Mosque: Three Injured
9-25-2024
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A 24-year-old man was arrested after an altercation at the Centre Culturel Musulman de Châteauguay, a mosque located in a Montreal suburb, left three people injured on the afternoon of Friday, September 20, 2024.
Incident Details
The Châteauguay Police reported that the suspect, Younes Abib, entered the mosque on St-Jean Baptiste Boulevard at around 1:40 p.m. when an altercation ensued with several individuals. Abib, who was reportedly carrying a knife, caused a brief period of panic within the mosque. It remains unclear whether the knife was used during the altercation.
Rachid Azmane, the mosque’s administrator, recounted the tense atmosphere that unfolded. “Everyone was panicked, not knowing what was going on. Were there injuries? Was anyone stabbed?” he recalled. However, he confirmed that the situation was soon brought under control.
Injuries and Investigation
Three men, all in their 50s, sustained minor injuries during the incident. One was transported to a hospital for treatment. According to police spokesperson Marc-Olivier Chatelois, the injuries occurred while the men attempted to disarm the suspect. One man grabbed the knife by its blade, resulting in injury, while the others were hurt while restraining the suspect, who appeared agitated.
The suspect, Younes Abib, was arrested and charged with possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. He made his first court appearance on Saturday at the Valleyfield courthouse, where he remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.
Motive Unknown
Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the incident. Châteauguay police have stated that they do not believe Abib intended to harm anyone. The knife was reportedly found in Abib’s belt, and police continue to question the suspect.
Azmane mentioned that the incident took place in the mosque’s basement after individuals noticed the suspect exhibiting strange behavior. Mosque leaders delayed the prayer service while a group of men approached Abib to speak with him. It was during this exchange that the knife was discovered, leading to the ensuing altercation.
Public Reactions
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed the incident on social media, expressing his concern. “No one should feel afraid in their place of worship. My thoughts are with these individuals and the entire congregation,” Trudeau wrote.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also commented, emphasizing the importance of safety in places of faith. "Canada’s places of worship should be safe for all. My heart goes out to Châteauguay's Centre Culturel Musulman, and I wish the injured a speedy recovery," Poilievre posted.
Mosque Reopens
The Centre Culturel Musulman de Châteauguay reopened on Saturday, and police continue their investigation. Abib’s next court appearance is scheduled for next week, where more information regarding the motive and additional charges may emerge.
Police have reassured the public that the situation is under control and that they are working to gather all necessary details to understand the incident fully.
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