Montreal’s Bell Centre became a gathering place for thousands on July 7, 2026, as the community came together to honour the life and sacrifice of police officer Mohamed Lamine Benredouane, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. Described by Police Chief Fady Dagher as a devoted father and a hero, Benredouane’s actions on June 22—when he responded to a distress call about a gunman—saved countless lives, despite the officer himself being injured shortly before his response.
A Hero’s Final Moments
On that fateful day, Benredouane, aged 34, and his partner were the first to arrive at the scene of a shooting at a hotel in the Côte-des-Neiges area. The incident resulted in the deaths of two individuals: Michel Mizrahi, a 68-year-old bystander, and 25-year-old Seth Scott Hatfield, the suspected gunman from Lethbridge, Alberta. During the chaotic exchange of gunfire, another officer sustained serious injuries. Chief Dagher poignantly questioned the audience, “How many lives did you save?” highlighting Benredouane’s bravery in confronting the threat head-on.
A Community in Mourning
The memorial drew an overwhelming turnout, with more than 5,000 police officers from across Canada joining the procession through Montreal’s streets. A touching display included bagpipers and mounted officers, culminating in an emotional tribute to a man described by his peers as exceptionally brave and protective. Dagher noted that despite being a relatively new officer—having joined the force in 2021—Benredouane had already made a significant impact, being sought after for multiple assignments at Station 26, which serves Côte-des-Neiges, Mont-Royal, and Outremont.
Benredouane, who was originally from Algeria, held a lifelong passion for policing, which he shared with his colleagues. His loss resonates deeply within the community, particularly for his young son and unborn child. Chief Dagher’s voice quivered as he expressed his sorrow to the children, apologising for their father’s absence.
A Communal Outpouring of Support
Before the formal ceremony, family and friends gathered for a private event at the Islamic Centre of Quebec on June 24. Samir Benserradj, a family member, articulated the profound shock of the tragedy, stating, “We always think this happens to someone else. Then a few hours later, my cousin wrote and said the brother of his wife was killed. It was shocking, it was devastating, especially for his direct family.” The staggering turnout for the memorial served as a reminder of the community’s solidarity during this difficult time.
Members of the public also participated in the procession, with individuals like Nour Gharib bringing flowers to pay their respects. “I am sending all my thoughts and prayers to his family,” she said, expressing gratitude for the sacrifices made by those in uniform.
Why it Matters
The tragic death of Mohamed Lamine Benredouane underscores the risks faced by law enforcement officers daily. His sacrifice not only highlights the dangers of policing but also brings to light the importance of community support in times of tragedy. As Montreal mourns, the legacy of Benredouane serves as a reminder of the courage exhibited by those who protect and serve, reinforcing the bond between police officers and the communities they strive to safeguard. The collective grief and respect shown during the memorial exemplify the strength of a city united in remembrance.
