The Montreal Police Service (SPVM) has taken action today with the arrest of a 19-year-old man in relation to the criminal arson at Congregation Beth Tikvah that occurred on the night of December 18, 2024, in Dollard des Ormeaux. According to police statements, Mohamed Ilyess Akodad faces two arson-related charges, two counts of attempted arson, one count of destruction of property, and one count of possession of incendiary material. He was detained in the Anjou borough after a meticulous investigation by officers from the SPVM’s Criminal Arson and Explosives Module, who also recovered several pieces of crucial evidence during a search of a residence.
The incident began around 3 AM when emergency services received a 911 call reporting the onset of a fire at Congregation Beth Tikvah located on Westpark Street. First responders arrived promptly and were able to control the blaze using a fire extinguisher, limiting the damage to the building. However, an incendiary object was found at the scene, raising suspicions of a deliberate attack.
In the immediate aftermath of the fire, investigators discovered that two windows of a nearby building owned by the local Jewish community had been shattered in an act of vandalism. Witnesses reported seeing a suspect fleeing the area just as the fire began.
“We are grateful to the police for diligently investigating this case,” said Henry Topas, B’nai Brith Canada’s Regional Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada, who also serves as cantor for Beth Tikvah. “Brazen attacks on our places of worship have left deep scars in Montreal’s Jewish community.
“An arrest is a relief, but antisemitism continues to escalate in Quebec and throughout the country. We hope that, at a later stage, the police decide to add hate crime charges.”
The suspect is set to be presented in court by the end of the day, where he will face charges as determined by the Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions. Meanwhile, authorities continue their investigation to ensure that all those involved in these hate crimes are brought to justice.
Anyone with additional information regarding the incident is urged to contact 911 or their local police station. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Info-Crime Montreal at 514 393 1133 or via the reporting form available on infocrimemontreal.ca.
Why no hate crime charges also?