Montreal's police chief has publicly addressed a dramatic incident where officers used a conducted energy weapon, commonly known as a Taser, on a man reportedly armed with a knife. The confrontation, which also involved police cruisers, unfolded on a busy city street, raising public questions about police procedures.
Chief Dagher's Statement on the Confrontation
In a statement issued on January 9, 2026, Montreal Police Service (SPVM) Chief Fady Dagher responded to the events that were captured in a widely circulated video. The footage showed the moment a man was subdued with a Taser after allegedly brandishing a knife. The video also indicated the individual came perilously close to being struck by moving police vehicles during the response.
While specific details about the man's identity or potential charges were not immediately released, Chief Dagher confirmed the core facts of the encounter. He emphasized that the individual was allegedly in possession of a weapon, which prompted the elevated police response on the public thoroughfare. The chief's comments aimed to provide context to the forceful tactics visible in the recording.
Scrutiny of Police Tactics and Public Safety
The incident has inevitably sparked discussion regarding the use of force by Montreal police and the protocols for handling individuals in crisis in crowded urban settings. The deployment of a Taser and the maneuvering of cruisers near the suspect highlight the split-second decisions officers must make to neutralize a perceived threat while protecting bystanders.
Such events are typically subject to internal review to determine if all actions complied with SPVM regulations and national standards for police conduct. Chief Dagher's decision to speak publicly shortly after the event suggests an effort to maintain transparency with the Montreal community as the process unfolds.
Ongoing Process and Community Impact
As is standard procedure, the Bureau des enquêtes indépendantes (BEI), Quebec's independent police watchdog, may be called upon to investigate the circumstances surrounding the use of force. This ensures an external examination of the officers' actions.
The confrontation serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often dangerous situations police officers face daily. It also underscores the ongoing public interest in how law enforcement balances assertive action with de-escalation techniques, especially when dealing with individuals carrying weapons in populated areas like downtown Montreal.
The SPVM, under Chief Dagher's leadership, continues to operate in a climate where accountability and public trust are paramount. Further updates on the investigation or any disciplinary proceedings are expected to follow the conclusion of the official review.
