A 30-year-old man is now facing criminal charges following a series of online threats that forced authorities to issue shelter-in-place orders at multiple locations in the Greater Montreal area on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.
Schools Lock Down Amid Security Concerns
The unsettling situation unfolded when law enforcement became aware of threatening communications circulating online. In response, shelter-in-place protocols were activated at several sites as a precautionary measure. One of the confirmed locations was Howard S. Billings school in Chateauguay, where students and staff were instructed to remain indoors while police investigated the potential danger.
The swift action by the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) and local police services aimed to ensure public safety while they worked to trace the source of the threats. The orders created a tense atmosphere in the affected communities as parents awaited updates on the security of their children.
Suspect Apprehended and Charged
Investigators successfully identified and located a suspect linked to the threatening posts. The individual, a 30-year-old man from the Montreal region, was taken into custody without incident. He has since been formally charged in connection with the incident.
While the specific charges have not been publicly detailed in initial reports, they are expected to relate to the uttering of threats and potentially causing a public disturbance. The police investigation remains active as they work to understand the motive and ensure there are no further associated risks.
Community Returns to Normalcy
Following the arrest, the shelter-in-place orders were lifted, and normal activities resumed at all locations. Officials have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to community safety related to this specific event.
This incident highlights the serious real-world consequences of making threats online, even if they are not intended to be carried out. It also underscores the robust protocols Canadian schools and police have in place to respond swiftly to potential security risks, prioritizing the protection of students and staff above all else.
The accused is expected to appear in court at a later date to face the allegations against him.
