On the early morning of October 4, 2024, fire tore through a century-old building at the intersection of Notre-Dame and Bonsecours streets, leaving two people dead. The victims, identified as 43-year-old Léonor Geraudie and her seven-year-old daughter, Vérane Reynaud-Geraudie, were French nationals staying at the property. Their tragic deaths have sparked grave concern for public safety and triggered questions about the circumstances surrounding the devastating blaze.
What was once merely historical architecture became the scene of horror as firefighters battled the flames for hours, responding to what was classified as a five-alarm fire. The building, characterized by its three stories and rich history, housed both a restaurant on the main floor and lodgings above.
Videos from security cameras obtained by Radio-Canada presented alarming footage shortly after the fire began. One video captures the moment when the fire is already engulfing the first floor; another shows what appears to be a masked individual leaving the scene as chaos ensued inside the building. This footage has caused investigators to probe whether the fire might have been intentionally started, with police labeling it as "suspicious" without providing any definitive details on its cause.
Minh-Tri Truong, retired commander of specialized investigations for the Montreal police, shared insights with CityNews. He explained how initial responders to fires have dual responsibilities: controlling the blaze and detecting any signs of potential foul play immediately. "When firefighters first respond, their primary focus is extinguishing the flames. But they also need to look for signs indicating whether the fire could be criminally charged," he said.
It has emerged from police reports and eyewitness accounts—documents cited during the investigation—that there were 25 individuals present inside the building when the fire broke out. Thankfully, most of these people managed to escape, but at least two sustained serious injuries, with reports indicating one was critically hurt.
Authorities have been tight-lipped about the full details of their investigation but have emphasized their determination to get to the bottom of the tragic incident. During the police's latest briefing, they refrained from confirming any specific leads, including inquiries surrounding the security footage or the identity of the masked individual.
Further complicity looms as speculation arises about possible organized crime involvement. "There’s the concept of the ‘Torch’ who may have been hired to set the fire, indicating the involvement of larger criminal elements rather than just random arsonists," Truong remarked. This criminal terminology refers to individuals possibly retained to commit arson for motives ranging from insurance fraud to intimidation of business owners.
Despite the still-recent tragedy, local reports have already stirred debates among the community about building safety regulations and emergency preparedness. According to residents, the area is filled with historic structures, and many are now apprehensive about the safety measures enforced within such buildings.
Those following the investigation are interested to see if the Montreal police reveal any substantial updates soon. Community members have come together, mourning the loss of the mother and daughter as they navigate the dual challenges of grief and fear.
While many questions remain unanswered and evidence collecting continues, the incident serves as more than just another fire story; it highlights potential criminal undertones and raises pressing questions about the safety of residents living near those iconic, historical sites.
The heartbreaking scene of the fire has been captured by bystanders and media alike. Photographer Sean Mollitt shared his experience, stating, "I was jolted awake by the sound of glass shattering. I looked out to see the chaos unraveling—the fire, the screams. It was surreal and terrifying." Residents reported flames reaching great heights, with the fire spreading rapidly.
While investigations proceed, significant community attention is directed not only at the victims but also at the operations of some businesses considered at high risk of such incidents. After all, if criminal activity proves true, many more lives could be at stake.
Echoing through the community is the sense of urgency for answers—a narrative combining both tragedy and the pressing need for justice. The process may be lengthy, but with police efforts underway and community support rallying behind, many hope for resolution and to honor the lives lost.
Montrealers are now left grappling with the reality of what happened on October 4, 2024. The historical ambiance of Old Montreal, once filled with excitement and charm, is now overshadowed by fear and sorrow. What does it mean for the future of such historic districts? Those questions linger as the investigation moves forward.
