Montreal law enforcement is currently probing an attack on a Jewish individual
Montreal Police Arrest Suspect in Antisemitic Assault on Jewish Man
A suspect has been arrested in connection with an antisemitic assault that took place on August 8, 2025, in Montreal’s Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension borough. The assault, which occurred at the intersection of de l’Épée Avenue and Beaumont Avenue on Friday afternoon, left a 32-year-old ultra-Orthodox Jewish man with non-life-threatening injuries and hospitalized.
The assault was motivated by antisemitism, as evidenced by the attacker’s actions. The victim was beaten while visibly identifying as Jewish by his traditional attire, and his kippah was thrown into a fountain in a humiliating manner.
The suspect, identified as Sergio Yanes Preciado, was arrested following the incident. However, the motive for the assault remains unknown. Montreal police initially did not highlight the antisemitic nature publicly when announcing the arrest, which drew criticism from community advocates such as B’nai Brith Canada who emphasized the importance of recognizing the hate crime aspect.
Mayor Valérie Plante condemned the assault and expressed her thoughts with the victim and his loved ones. She stated that the SPVM will investigate the incident thoroughly. The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) also expressed concern about the assault, stating that an attack on a Jewish father in front of his children is unacceptable.
The suspect faces charges including assault causing bodily harm, and the case has raised strong demands for firm legal consequences without leniency to send a clear message against antisemitic violence in Montreal. The victim's children were present during the assault and were undoubtedly traumatized by the incident.
The incident has caused widespread condemnation from Canadian and international leaders calling for stronger actions against antisemitism. The investigation is ongoing, and police continue to encourage witnesses to come forward. It is hoped that this arrest will bring some measure of justice to the victim and his family.
A video showing the victim being punched repeatedly by the suspect has surfaced, but the suspect fled the scene before police arrived. The suspect was later apprehended. The incident has sparked outrage and concern in the community, and the authorities are working diligently to ensure that justice is served.
The Montreal police have continued their investigation into the antisemitic assault, with the surfacing of a video showing the violent attack. The public is being encouraged to come forward with any information that may support the case. (video, investigation)
This incident has drawn attention to the growing concerns about crime and justice, particularly in instances of hate crimes like the antisemitic assault in Montreal. It underscores the need for greater attention and reporting on general-news matters related to politics and social justice. (crime-and-justice, general-news, politics)
