The City Of Montreal Just Announced An Additional $5.5M In Funding For The SPVM

During the night of August 28-29, two shootings took place in Montreal within a few hours of each other. And on Sunday, Mayor Valérie Plante announced new measures and investments for the SPVM to fight against gun violence.

The City of Montreal announced in a press release that it will be funding of 5.5 million dollars to the SPVM which "will allow it to improve the SPVM's workforce dedicated to the fight against criminal groups." An additional 42 police officers and civilians will be added to assist in investigative teams.

"With these additional investments, the SPVM will make up for the reinforcement of the ÉCLIPSE unit and enhance this team with the hiring of 28 new resources. The ÉCLIPSE unit will work in support of the other SPVM teams to fight gun violence, particularly by gathering information on criminal groups," the City wrote.

These announcements follow two tragic events. At approximately 11 p.m. on Saturday, August 28, Montreal police were called to intervene in the Saint-Michel sector at the intersection of rue Émile-Journault and 2nd Avenue for a shooting. An 18-year-old man was hit by a projectile, but his life is not in danger.

"Two vehicles were stopped following the events following descriptions obtained, seven to eight people at this time were arrested. They will be met by investigators to determine their participation in the events. The first vehicle intercepted had a man on board and a firearm was located inside," said Raphaël Bergeron, spokesperson for the SPVM.

The second incident occurred in the Lachine area at the corner of Camille and Ouellette streets at approximately 3:30 a.m. on August 29. The investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been made at this time.

"Police officers responded to the corner of rue Camille and rue Ouellette because of gunshots being heard. They found shell casings, and traces of impact on the buildings and a parked vehicle," said Raphaël Bergeron, before explaining that no one was injured in this incident.