Downtown Montreal shooting renews concerns over store violence

From shootings, to smash and grabs, Montreal merchants say they are spending more on security.

Montreal police (SPVM) are still searching for a suspected shoplifter who opened fire during a confrontation with a security guard outside the Simons store downtown -- an incident that has renewed concerns about rising violence in commercial areas.

“It’s kind of scary because we’re working in downtown, a place that we think is going to be safe,” said Ralph Bazile, who works at the Moores men’s clothing store.

There have been a number of violent incidents involving stores in recent months.

In March, police say two men walked into a Videotron store on Sainte-Catherine Street, tied up two employees and fled with stolen goods.

Bazile said that shoplifting has become a major issue, noting that just a few weeks ago, he had to stop someone who tried to steal clothing from his store.

“The guy was leaving with a sport jacket. I had to go after him to take the jacket away from him,” he explained.

In December, thieves crashed an SUV through the storefront of a jeweller in the Park Extension neighbourhood.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) says merchants are noticing an increase in theft and vandalism.

“The share of small businesses directly affected by crime jumped from 9 per cent in 2023 to 30 per cent in 2024,” said CFIB senior policy analyst Vincent Paquet.

He added that Quebec small businesses are spending more money on security equipment, and he is urging the government to help out.

“The government of British Columbia is giving a rebate for crime-related equipment in installments. So, for security cameras and also to repair broken windows,” Paquet said.

He said some merchants even resort to locking their doors during operating hours, ultimately creating an environment that is bad for business.