FREDERIC SERRE
The 1015 West

A Montreal police investigation into the kidnapping and murder of a 25-year-old cryptocurrency influencer has resulted in the arrest of three individuals, including a man who was involved in a dramatic shootout with police in Dollard des Ormeaux in August, which resulted in serious injuries to two innocent bystanders.

The bound and gagged decomposing body of Kevin Mirshahi, believed to have been assassinated in Les Cèdres after being kidnapped last June was positively identified by a coroner on Oct. 30, two weeks after being found in a busy north-end Montreal park by city workers. An intensive investigation by the Montreal police homicide squad led to three arrests – Darius Perry, 27, of Châteauguay, and Nackeal Hickey, 26, of Montreal, and Joanie Lepage, 32 of Les Cèdres. Perry and Hickey face charges of complicity to commit murder and kidnapping, while Lepage has been charged with murder and abduction.

The SQ is still seeking a prime suspect identified as 36-year-old Guillaume Nobert of St. Lazare. Investigators believe he may be hiding in Mexico.

Hickey made headlines Aug. 4 when he allegedly tried to steal a car from a father and son who were unloading their vehicle at the corner of Davignon St. and De Salaberry Blvd. Hickey allegedly shot both men, prompting bystanders to call 911. According to police, about 30 police officers responded, with more than 40 shots fired in the gun battle with the suspect. The father, son and Hickey were seriously injured.

Hickey, who has been in custody since August, faces a multitude of charges related to the shooting, including at least one count of attempted murder as well as violating a court order prohibiting him from possessing weapons and violating parole conditions.