Two men, Justin Fortier-Trahan and Juventino Hernandez Pelaez, have been charged with second-degree murder and arson after a fire broke out in an Old Montreal building, resulting in the deaths of a mother and daughter from France. The victims were identified as Léonor Geraudie, 43, and her seven-year-old daughter Vérane Reynaud Geraudie, who were inside the building at the time of the fire on October 4. Additionally, the two men are facing charges of arson causing bodily harm in connection to another individual, as well as recklessly endangering life by damaging a property through fire or explosion.
Montreal police disclosed that Fortier-Trahan was suspected of throwing an incendiary device into the building, while Hernandez Pelaez was believed to be driving the getaway car. The incident marked the second deadly fire in Old Montreal in less than two years, following a fire in March 2023 that claimed the lives of seven individuals in a building housing short-term rentals. Records indicate that both properties involved in the fires are owned by Emile Benamor, who also owns a third building in the neighborhood that was recently targeted with gunfire.
The tragic events in Old Montreal have raised concerns about safety and security in the area, as well as the ownership and management of properties linked to multiple incidents. The deaths of the mother and daughter from France have sparked outrage and calls for justice, bringing attention to the need for thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fires. Authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to the blaze and identify any potential motives or connections between the suspects and the victims.
Efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice are ongoing, with the two men accused of murder and arson scheduled to face legal proceedings. The charges filed against Fortier-Trahan and Hernandez Pelaez highlight the severity of their alleged actions and the tragic consequences that resulted from the fire. The community has come together to mourn the loss of the victims and support their loved ones, while also advocating for accountability and measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As details continue to emerge about the case, the public remains shocked and saddened by the senseless loss of life in the Old Montreal fires. The investigation will delve into the backgrounds of the suspects and explore any potential motives or connections that may shed light on the tragic events. The community is grappling with the aftermath of the fires, seeking answers and justice for the victims while working to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents in the area. The impact of the fires on the neighborhood and the wider community underscores the importance of addressing issues related to property ownership, security, and fire safety to prevent future tragedies.
