Dollard-des-Ormeaux

DDO mother and children still in shock from hit-and-run

Local Journalism Initiative / / / ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A Dollard-des-Ormeaux mother and her four young children are still recovering after a hit-and-run crash shattered their lives several weeks ago. The collision happened at the corner of St. Jean Boulevard and Roger Pilon. Manel (she requested her family name not be used) stopped at a red light and headed toward Pierrefonds Boulevard, with her twin toddlers, her seven-month-old baby, and her four-year-old daughter all secured in car seats- three in the back row, and one in the middle row — of the minivan. She was waiting for the light to turn green when, without warning, a black car barrelled into the rear of her vehicle at high speed.

The force of the impact crushed the back of the van, jamming the sliding side doors and trapping the children inside. Without hesitation, Manel unbuckled herself and dove into the back, climbing over seats to reach her kids. As she scrambled to help them, she looked up through the shattered rear window and saw the two men in the other vehicle-both described as Black with braided hair staring back at her. In those split seconds, she watched them reverse and pull away, catching another glimpse through the side window as they drove off. Leaning to the front of the car, she managed to catch a fleeting look at the licence plate through the windshield — just enough to recall a “4” and a “Y”—before the car vanished, leaving the family in the chaos of the wreck.

When the men sped away, Manel was left in a scene of shock and distress. The inside of the minivan was littered with broken glass and the cries of her children, still strapped in their seats, confused and terrified. She worked frantically, picking shards of glass off their clothes and skin, while checking them for injuries as she tried to calm them down. The back doors were jammed shut by the impact. Waiting for help to arrive, Manel remained in the back with her children, tending to them and doing her best to reassure them in the midst of the chaos.

“Everything happened in seconds,” Manel told The Suburban. “One moment I was waiting at the light, the next I was climbing into the back to get my babies out, and the men who hit us were just driving away.”

Firefighters arrived quickly and worked to unjam the rear doors, while helping Manel free her children from their seats. Paramedics checked the family at the scene. Miraculously, none of the children suffered life-threatening injuries, but all were badly shaken. While their physical wounds were minor, the emotional scars are proving much harder to mend. The children remain afraid of cars and are now traumatized by the thought of getting back into a vehicle, a routine they must face each day.

Manel, who was most injured during the crash, still suffers from severe back pain and is undergoing physiotherapy and taking medication as part of her recovery.

The minivan, deemed a total loss, was towed to a Dorval storage lot. When it came time to retrieve the vehicle, the family was handed a bill for $835. Of that amount, $230 in charges were attributed to the SPVM for administrative fees, towing, and storage, while the remaining costs were charged by the private company for a second towing service and additional storage days. All charges on the same bill. Despite the circumstances, the family’s insurance provider has refused to cover the damages, leaving them to shoulder the costs themselves.

Marwan, Manel’s husband, is a local Adapted Transport driver for people with disabilities and the family’s sole provider. In addition to his regular work hours, he drives for Uber to earn a second income until Manel is able to return to work. “My wife did everything right. She was just waiting at a red light,” Marwan told The Suburban. “Suddenly our lives were turned upside down—and now, on top of everything, we’re left paying the bills after someone else’s reckless actions.”

Montreal police are still investigating and are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or recognizes the vehicle to come forward. The family hopes that by sharing their story, someone may remember a crucial detail.

“Our main concern is our kids,” Marwan said. “But we want those responsible to be found. No family should have to go through this.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact their local police station. n

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One dead and two injured in DDO crash

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A man was killed and two others injured after a car struck a tree on Spring Garden Street in Dollard-des-Ormeaux early Saturday morning. Emergency services were called to the scene near Fabre Street just before 4 a.m., after several residents reported hearing a crash.

According to authorities, firefighters and paramedics arrived to find three men trapped inside the vehicle. One passenger was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and the other passenger were taken to hospital. Their conditions had not been confirmed as of Saturday morning while they undergo treatment.

Investigators believe that the car may have been travelling at high speed before veering off the roadway and hitting the tree. The SPVM’s collision unit set up a perimeter in order to examine the site and collect evidence.

Despite the early hours, officials were able to speak with a number of witnesses.

The identities of those involved have not yet been released.

The investigation remains ongoing. n

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Suspect arrested in DDO synagogue firebombing

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Montreal Police (SPVM) have arrested a 19-year-old suspect in connection with the December 2024 firebombing of Beth Tikvah Synagogue in Dollard-des-Ormeaux.

Mohamed Ilyess Akodad was arrested at his residence in Anjou after a search was executed by the SPVM’s arson squad which led investigators to seize various pieces of evidence.

The recent arrest comes following the December 18 attack, when police responded to a 911 call around 3 a.m. reporting a fire at the synagogue on Westpark Street. The firebomb shattered a glass panel adjacent to the front doors and sparked a fire in the vestibule leading to the inner door. A door was also broken during the incident. Firefighters controlled the blaze, and investigators discovered an incendiary device dubbed a “Molotov cocktail” at the scene. Witnesses reported seeing a suspect flee the area. During the same incident, two windows were shattered at a nearby Jewish community building across the street, Federation CJA.

Akodad appeared at the Montreal courthouse on Wednesday to face charges related to arson, attempted arson, destruction of property, and possession of incendiary materials.

“We are grateful to the police for diligently investigating this case,” says B’nai Brith Canada’s Regional Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada Henry Topas, who also serves as cantor for Beth Tikvah. “Brazen attacks on our places of worship have left deep scars in Montreal’s Jewish community.”

Federation CJA acknowledged that measures taken by their Community Security Network were “instrumental in not only preventing greater damage but also in providing the tools and resources to law enforcement needed to further their investigation.”

Eta Yudin, CIJA’s Vice-President for Quebec, emphasized the importance of this development: “We have long called for law enforcement and public safety officials to use every possible tool to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the hate, intimidation and violence we see in our streets.”

The December attack marked the second such incident at Beth Tikvah, following a similar firebombing in November 2023. Both attacks involved incendiary devices targeting the building’s entrance and coincided with vandalism at nearby Jewish community facilities. In the November incident, staff and congregants arrived to find their front doors charred from a Molotov cocktail, while Federation CJA’s West Island offices were also targeted with a second Molotov cocktail discovered at its location.

DDO Mayor Alex Bottausci said, “I am thankful that the police have arrested the individual implicated in the fire bombing of Beth Tikvah. Antisemitism, and violence, have no place in our community. This is not our Canada.”

DDO Councillor Tanya Toledano addressed concerns about enforcement of antisemitic crimes, stating, “We need to see enforcement happening. We need to see that the police are not operating with what appears to be their hands tied behind their backs and be able to actually enforce the laws that exist. We’ve seen violence on our streets with very few arrests and certainly none that I know of that have been sticking. It cannot continue like this.”

Beth Tikvah Rabbi Emeritus Mordecai Zeitz also expressed concerns, stating, “Even when they (police) catch the perpetrators, no consequences are applied.”

According to B’nai Brith’s latest Annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents, Quebec recorded a 215.7 percent increase in antisemitic incidents since 2023. The organization’s Director of Research and Advocacy, Richard Robertson, noted that “Since October 7, 2023, Beth Tikvah has been attacked in repeated, shocking displays of antisemitism.”

Jews remain Canada’s most targeted religious minority, being the victims of almost 60% of hate crimes while making up only some 2% of the population.

Despite the arrest, police say the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact 911, their local police station, or anonymously through Info-Crime Montreal at 514-393-1133 or via the online form at infocrimemontreal.ca. n

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Family challenges suicide ruling in West Island teen’s death

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The family of Emmanuel Diafouka is demanding answers after Montreal police ruled the 18-year-old’s death a suicide following what they describe as a rushed six-day investigation.

Emmanuel’s body was discovered in a Dollard-des-Ormeaux park on January 30, with circumstances his parents say don’t add up. The case, initially treated as suspicious, was closed, following a six-day investigation, as a suicide – a conclusion that has left the family reeling and searching for truth.

“Emmanuel wasn’t a suicidal child. He loved life, he loved his family, and he had plans,” his mother, Chimene Moumpala, told media, while fighting back tears during a press conference held at the Center for Research-Action on Race Relations (CRARR) office.

The timeline of events has emerged as a critical point of contention. According to Jean-François Diafouka, Emmanuel’s father, phone records show his son made a call at 8:32 p.m. from their home. Police determined the time of death as 8:33 p.m. – creating what the family sees as an impossible scenario, given that the park is a 10-minute walk from their residence.

More questions surfaced when Emmanuel’s friends discovered bloody tissues near the scene days after his death. Despite sharing photographs with investigators, the family says police never followed up on this potential evidence.

The investigation’s scope has also drawn criticism. Helena Diafouka, Emmanuel’s sister, revealed that police attributed the suicide to an argument with his girlfriend – yet investigators never interviewed the girlfriend or Emmanuel’s close friends. She added that the dispute had been resolved before her brother’s death.

At the time of his death, Emmanuel was looking forward to an upcoming trip to the Republic of Congo with his mother and had plans to pursue hockey in France. His family struggles to reconcile these future plans with the suicide ruling.

Fo Niemi, CRARR’s executive director, expressed concern about the investigation’s impact on public trust, particularly within Montreal’s Black community. “Justice cannot be served without reopening this case and examining all overlooked evidence and un-interviewed witnesses,” Niemi said.

Helena Diafouka questions whether her brother’s case received less thorough attention because of his race.

The Montreal police service maintains that “the evidence gathered during the investigation confirms that this was not a criminal act” but declined to provide specific details. Meanwhile, the Quebec coroner’s office continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding Emmanuel’s death.

The family has reached out to DDO Mayor Alex Bottausci and their MP, Francis Scarpaleggia of Lac-Saint-Louis, for support in reopening the investigation.

“When the family reached out seeking help, I felt compelled to assist them as a concerned member of our community. While this matter falls outside my municipal role, I was able to facilitate communication with the appropriate authorities, who showed great empathy toward the family’s situation. Sometimes the most important thing we can do is help connect people with those who can provide answers. I’m grateful I could play a small part in helping this family work toward the closure they so deeply deserve. This is absolutely tragic and they deserve all the time and attention required to have the detailed explanations that they are seeking,” Bottausci told The Suburban.

“We need closure to begin healing,” Helena said. “Without answers, we can’t properly grieve. We deserve to know what really happened to Emmanuel.” n

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Teen found dead with gunshot to the head in DDO park

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A resident’s morning walk turned tragic in Dollard-Des-Ormeaux last Thursday when a passerby discovered the body of a male teenager, prompting an immediate response from Montreal police (SPVM). The teen had been killed by a gunshot to the head.

The grim discovery was made at approximately 8 a.m. in a park at the intersection of Trinity and Chauret streets, in what is typically a peaceful residential area. First responders rushed to the scene after receiving the 911 call. The teen’s death was pronounced immediately on site.

SPVM investigators swarmed the area, with multiple police vehicles and forensics teams on site. The SPVM has confirmed that the Criminal Investigations Division has taken over the case.

Police set up a mobile command centre at the corner of Trinity and Chauret, and actively canvassed the neighbourhood. Several residents reported seeing unusual activity in the park the night before, though police have not confirmed any connection to the death.

The area around the park, situated in a residential district, remained closed to the public as investigators did their work. Anyone with information is asked to dial 911 or to contact Info-Crime anonymously at 514-393-1133.

The identity of the deceased remains confidential.

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Four suspects arrested in DDO home attacks

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Four suspects have been arrested in connection with a series of violent crimes targeting a residence on Louis-Riel Street in Dollard-des-Ormeaux.

Montreal police (SPVM) stated that the early investigation revealed strong suspicions of extortion in relation to the attacks. Following further investigation, the four suspects — Sugirthan Sivanesan, 35, of Pincourt; Mahinthan Sivalingam, 40, of Île Bizard; Jesinthan Sivalingam, 43, of Montreal; and Julian Antony Theranson, 37, of Pierrefonds, were charged with extortion along with multiple other charges.

The other charge attributed to all four suspects is threatening to burn, damage or destroy the person’s property. One of the accused, Jesinthan Sivalingam, faces a third charge of criminal harassment causing the person to fear for their safety.

With the exception of Theranson, the other three suspects have criminal records.

The D.D.O. home was damaged by gunfire on January 13. About a month earlier on December 15, the windows on the house were smashed. On December 1, a vehicle parked at the residence was torched. On the same street, in December, two other vehicles were set ablaze.

No injuries were reported in connection with these incidents.

Montreal police stated that the investigation is ongoing.

Meanwhile, neighbours in speaking to media have expressed their ongoing concern about the people living in the home, saying that prior to these recent incidents, the “coming and goings” at the house have been concerning for quite some time. n

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DDO restaurant destroyed by suspected arson

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A restaurant on Sunnybrooke Boulevard in Dollard-des-Ormeaux was struck by fire early Friday morning at approximately 1:30 a.m.

Montreal Police (SPVM) arrived at the scene located near Kingsley Street while Montreal firefighters were combating the flames.

A perimeter was established as firefighters worked to control the blaze, which caused significant damage to the structure.

The incident occurred during non-operational hours. No injuries were reported.

According to early information obtained by authorities, at least one suspect was observed fleeing the location following the fire’s outbreak, prompting the transfer of the investigation to the SPVM’s arson section.

Technical investigators conducted evidence collection throughout the day to establish the precise circumstances surrounding the suspicious fire. Surveillance footage will be reviewed and any potential witnesses will be met.

No arrests have been made as of press time.

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Three suspicious car fires in DDO

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

In a tranquil neighbourhood of Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO), a series of vehicle fires has sparked concern and prompted an investigation by Montreal police (SPVM).

The latest incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, when a vehicle parked on Louis-Riel Street was engulfed in flames. This marks the third vehicle fire on the same street in just two days, leading to heightened scrutiny from law enforcement, with high suspicions of arson.

Residents were awakened by the sounds of the blaze around 3:50 a.m., with the SPVM summoned to the scene minutes later. Officers discovered a vehicle completely destroyed by fire, and the initial reports stemming from the early stages of the investigation suggests suspicious circumstances, according to SPVM spokesperson Veronique Dubuc.

This unsettling pattern began the previous evening, when two other vehicles were allegedly similarly set ablaze on the same street around 8 p.m.

In response to these incidents, the SPVM has ramped up their presence in the area, deploying additional patrols to maintain public safety and gather information. The SPVM’s arson unit has taken charge of the investigation, examining the scene for evidence to determine the cause of these fires.

The local DDO community finds itself on edge, with residents eager for answers. As authorities continue their investigation, locals remain vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution to these mysterious and troubling incidents.

Kirkland residents living on the same street have recently experienced a similar scare, with multiple arson attacks occurring at three residences on the same street. 

West Island residents, commenting to The Suburban, have raised various concerns about the rise in crime in different neighbourhoods which have previously been considered generally “safe” in comparison with other sectors in the Greater Montreal Area (GMA). 

Three suspicious car fires in DDO Read More »

Cinema Des Sources in DDO to close

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The closure of Cinema Des Sources in Dollard-des-Ormeaux marks a significant moment for Cinemas Guzzo, Quebec’s largest chain of independent movie theatres. Vincenzo Guzzo, the entrepreneur behind the chain, has acknowledged the challenges faced by the industry, particularly in light of recent financial pressures.

Recently, Quebec Superior Court Judge Michel Pinsonnault placed Cinemas Guzzo under interim receivership, necessitating financial transparency with Raymond Chabot, a firm specializing in financial recovery. This move is part of CIBC’s efforts to seek liquidation over an outstanding $38 million debt, with the bank expressing frustration over extended payment delays.

Guzzo, while refraining from discussing the specifics of the ruling, has assured compliance with the court’s directives, stating, “I’m doing my job. We’re getting it done.” He clarified that the decision to close Cinema Des Sources was made prior to these proceedings, citing an expiring lease as the primary reason.

The pandemic has had a devastating impact on the cinema industry, with prolonged closures severely affecting revenue streams. Guzzo acknowledged this impact, noting the nearly two years of restrictions that have challenged theatre operators.

Beyond his role in the cinema industry, Vincenzo Guzzo is well-known for his appearances as a “Dragon” on the Canadian reality television show Dragons’ Den, where he invests in and mentors aspiring entrepreneurs. His dynamic personality and business acumen have made him a popular figure on the show.

In addition to his business ventures, Guzzo is recognized for his philanthropic efforts. He has been involved in various charitable activities, including significant donations to healthcare institutions in Quebec, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community.

Guzzo’s contributions extend to his active participation in community development, where he supports initiatives aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and services. His involvement in both business and community efforts reflects a multifaceted approach to leadership and social responsibility. n

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DDO revitalizes Civic Centre

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The City of Dollard-des-Ormeaux (D.D.O.) celebrated the official inauguration of its newly renovated Civic Centre last week. The event was attended by elected officials including D.D.O. Mayor Alex Bottausci, D.D.O. City Councillors Laurence Parent, Errol Johnson, Mickey Gutman, Tanya Toledano, Morris Vesely, Valerie Assouline, Ryan Brownstein and Anastasia Assimakopoulos along with representatives of various local organizations.

“The Civic Centre, the heart of the community life of Dollard-des-Ormeaux, has always been a privileged place to meet, exchange and enjoy activities for residents of all ages. With modernized facilities and redesigned spaces, it now meets even better the daily needs of our community, offering a warm and versatile atmosphere,” the city stated.

The revitalization of the centre includes new teleworking spaces, convivial relaxation areas, redesigned activity rooms and improved access for people with reduced mobility.

“With these renovations, the vision was to create a welcoming and functional space, where every resident, whether they are here for an activity or not, can feel at home,” Bottausci said. “The Civic Centre embodies the spirit of Dollard-des-Ormeaux as an inclusive and dynamic city. We are delighted to invite you to come and discover or rediscover this reinvented space.”

The Civic Centre stands as a local hub that plays an essential role in promoting sports, cultural and social activities. These renovations will ensure the efficiency of the Civic Centre as it continues to play a central role in community life as it offers modern and accessible infrastructures for current and future generations. n

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DDO teacher gets two year prison term for sexual abuse

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Robert Charpentier was sentenced last Thursday to a two-year prison term for sexually abusing two students in the ‘80s and ‘90s.

The 77-year old former West Island teacher at Emmanuel Christian School in Dollard-des-Ormeaux was convicted in December 2022. The victims were so traumatized by the events that it took them nearly three decades to draw up the courage to come forward.

The victims expressed themselves during their victim impact statement explaining how the abuse had affected them throughout their lives, living with a sense of shame and betrayal. One of the victims stated that the trauma led him to drug and alcohol abuse.

Quebec Court Justice Guylaine Rivest stated in the sentencing the importance of an incarceration period for the crime despite that the accused was a first-time offender. The defence was seeking a lighter sentence of time to be served in the community, while the Crown was seeking a 24 to 30-month prison term.

“The need for denunciation and deterrence is so urgent that those objectives can be achieved only by incarceration. This prioritization must be even more rigorously applied when the offences were committed over an extended period and in a context of trust or authority,” the Judge wrote.

Following his prison sentence, Charpentier will be placed on probation for three years. He must provide a sample of his DNA and will be logged on the registry of sex offenders for a period of 10 years. n

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West Island coach found guilty of sexual assault

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Robert Litvack was found guilty of sexual assault and sexual interference on a 13-year-old late last week.

The 44-year-old Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO) man who coached various sports teams throughout the West Island was handed the guilty verdict by Justice Josée Bélanger of the Quebec Court.

As a direct result of his trusted position, Litvack managed to attack the young aspiring athlete who faced his aggressor in court, sharing his testimony last July alongside his parents.

At the time that the assaults occurred, Litvack was giving personal baseball training lessons to the teen in preparation for the next season. As part of the training session “preparations” Litvack massaged the teen’s legs, then told him to lower his underwear at which point he proceeded to massage his exposed buttocks for an average of 15 seconds during each session.

Litvack also invited the teen to participate in a disturbing version of a driving lesson, first allowing him to steer his car, then asking him to sit on his lap. During some car rides, Litvack tickled the teen on his inner thigh and repeated the same unwanted tickling while the teen was cornered in a baseball batting cage.

The privacy of the training sessions was further enhanced by the Covid-19 regulations coupled with the colder weather which stipulated that the teen could not be accompanied by his parents while participating in a private indoor training session.

According to the teen’s testimony, the unwanted gestures made him feel uncomfortable to the level where he was apprehensive each time he crossed paths with Litvack. “It’s not that I dreaded the practices, but when they were about to start, I was counting down the minutes,” he told the court last summer.

The ongoing sexual assaults ended after the youngster found the strength to talk about it to his mother, who in turn discussed the issue with his father. Together, the family decided to file a police report.

The AA bantam baseball coach was arrested in DDO in May 2021. The case caused a stir in the West Island due to Litvack’s involvement as an administrator in the Lac-Saint-Louis baseball organization. He was also a hockey coach. n

West Island coach found guilty of sexual assault Read More »

DDO seniors club celebrates 25th Anniversary

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO) Seniors Club marked its 25th anniversary with a Gala that was held at the banquet hall located in the DDO Civic Centre last week.

The celebratory event was attended by more than 160 members and volunteers. Elected officials in attendance were DDO Mayor Alex Bottausci, MNA for Robert Baldwin Brigitte Garceau along with DDO City Councillors Errol Johnson, Mickey Guttman, Tanya Toledano, Morris Vesely and Anastasia Assimakopoulos.

Founded in 1999, the DDO Seniors Club has been a cornerstone for seniors in the community, offering a welcoming space for social connection, personal growth, and well-being. Over the past 25 years, the club has grown to serve more than 800 members annually, providing a wide range of physical and social activities, and opportunities for seniors to stay engaged and connected.

During the event, special recognition was given to the club’s founding president, Joyce Sweeney, for her visionary leadership, and the current president, Francine Lamotte, highlighted the dedication of the board, volunteers, and members who continue to sustain the club’s success. “I want to pay tribute to all those who have passed through the club, who have evolved with it and who have enabled its sustainability and achievements over all these years. I am talking here about each of you, the members, all the volunteers, the boards of directors and employees as well as our partners, the main one of which is the city of Dollard-des-Ormeaux,” Lamotte stated.

As the club enters its next chapter, it remains committed to its mission of providing a space for seniors to thrive, build friendships, and stay active. With the ongoing support of the City of DDO and valued sponsors, the DDO Seniors Club looks forward to many more years of making a positive difference in the lives of its members. n

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A rainbow of joy at West Island Blues Fest

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The West Island Blues Festival took place in Dollard-des-Ormeaux last Saturday with its first free outdoor event for 2024. Tone 11 kicked off the festivities while the BBQ’s were fired up at 3 p.m. Attendees “trickled in”, the term WIBF co-founder DDO Councillor Errol Johnson used to describe the first hours of the event to The Suburban. “I just love this part, watching everyone come in as we greet them at the entrance.” With a smile on throughout the entire day, side by side with WIBF co-founder Pierrefonds-Roxboro Mayor Jim Beis, each attendee was given a warm welcome. “We are excited to be back here again this year where it all started,” Beis told The Suburban. DDO park was the first location at the launch of the WIBF 21 years ago. “When we started, we did not even have a stage, but we had fun and it just keeps getting better and better,” Johnson explained.

Local talent, Rachel Dara performed several songs in between band set-ups. Fans were drawn in by her guitar and vocal solo performance. Later in the afternoon, Salah & Family Steel Pan Band rocked the dance floor while the smell of jerk chicken and Caribbean spices breezed through the park. “This is a family affair. My father figured, ‘how do you keep six kids busy?’, so we started a band,” Rachel Wilson, the eldest sibling and member of the band told The Suburban. In total, twenty-two family members belonging to four generations have joined the band intermittently over the years.

Inus Aso Raggae Band kept the party going strong with upbeat, downbeat and side-beat tunes through the suppertime hours. A rainbow came across the sky for the last thirty minutes of their performance creating a picturesque scene that generated a sense of awe for attendees.The Mike Goudreau Band took over the early evening performance slot at sundown followed by Jack De Keyzer.

The 2024 beneficiary representatives came on stage and included Denise Hupé for ABOVAS, Jacquie McGowan for the West Island Woman’s shelter, Joan Lee for the West Island Community Black Association, Leslie Carr for Literacy Unlimited and Christian Dubé for Centre Bienvenue. “It is such a privilege to be counted for the first time this year as one for the beneficiaries for this awesome festival,” Hupé told The Suburban. n

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DDO parish celebrates 60 years

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

St-Luke’s Parish celebrated its 60th anniversary with a Mass held at the Dollard-des-Ormeaux arena last week. Some 900 parishioners attended the event along with 300 live-stream viewers. Dollard-des-Ormeaux Mayor Alex Bottausci and the MNA for Robert-Baldwin Brigitte Garceau were in attendance.

The Mass led by St-Luke’s own Father Bertrand Montpetit was presented with an opening statement from parishioner and volunteer at St-Luke’ Luc Milette. Bishop Bob Harris, Episcopal Vicar Father Jean-Marie Billwala and Abbot Gilles Surprenant were honoured with special mentions for their contributions and support to the parish.

Deacon Tony Rettino’s team of alter servers assisted the clergy in the Mass set-up and ceremony. The lead choir headed by Vladimir Popean enchanted attendees with traditional songs of worship. The youth choir directed by Anna Graham sang upbeat songs, delighting attendees with their youthful voices.

Following the Mass, parishioners and attendees “broke bread” together, sharing meals provided by multiple local businesses. Members of the St-Luke’s youth group headed by Angela Milette and Nicole German volunteered at the event, entertaining youth with various activities.

Special attention was given to seniors and persons with specific needs in finding seating and assistance in getting to and from the event.

The live-stream of the event was recorded and is available for viewing on the St-Luke’s Parish webpage. n

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DDO man arrested and faces extradition to U.S.

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

A private residence in Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO) was searched as part of an investigation related to drug smuggling. Montreal police (SPVM) officers assisted RCMP investigators as they executed the search at the home located in a quiet neighbourhood on Tecumseh Road, near Montevista.

Investigators were searching for evidence related to the sale and distribution of Ketamine as part of an ongoing investigation that began last February. According to RCMP spokesperson Charles Poirier, no arrests were made in connection with the search in DDO that is part of a larger investigation where a total of eight residential properties were searched. However, police officers did arrest Jonathan Massouras who is wanted in the U.S. in connection with a case where he and four other people from the West Island were indicted in California in 2020 for their alleged participation in a telemarketing scam targeting seniors in the U.S., primarily in the state of California.

Massouras was arraigned just hours after his arrest and will remain detained until his hearing on the U.S. request for his extradition. n

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Three West Islanders arrested in major drug and firearm bust

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By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Three West Island suspects were arrested during a drug search last Thursday that took place in three residential homes located in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Pointe-Claire and Vaudreuil-Dorion.

Montreal police (SPVM) seized 11 military-style weapons and 10,000 rounds of ammunition of different calibers along with large quantities of drugs during the search following a lengthy investigation targeting a drug trafficking network led by the West Narcotics Section of the SPVM. Supported by the Quebec Provincial Police (SQ) Tactical Intervention Group, officers arrested the three men aged 33, 43 and 48 while the search was underway at their residences.

The three alleged accomplices are suspected of having belonged to a network which allegedly sold large quantities of drugs every week. During the search of the three homes, police officers seized approximately 13,000 methamphetamine tablets, two kilos of cocaine, 380 grams of crack cocaine and various quantities of other narcotics.

The suspects are facing numerous charges related to drug trafficking and firearms offences.

Two of the accused will remain incarcerated until the next stage of legal proceedings. The third alleged trafficker was released after agreeing to comply with strict conditions.

The SPVM stated that investigation files involving firearms are always treated as a priority, with each seizure potentially preventing numerous violent crimes. n

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Bottausci furious after “bogus” invite to CMM

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Dollard-des-Ormeaux mayor Alex Bottausci is fighting tirelessly through what he calls “disjointed” planning by the Montreal Agglomeration and the Communauté Metropolitaine de Montréal (CMM) to push forward the interests of his residents. The CMM, headed by Montreal mayor Valérie Plante, met last spring to put together its urban planning proposal for the Greater Montreal Area, including demerged cities.

Following its revisions of the CMM’s proposal, next to its own plans created and revised through public consultations with its own residents, DDO has not only rejected the majority of the proposals but has presented their own plans to the Plante administration. “After the last Agglo meeting (last March), I positioned a request for the Jacques Bizard corridor. I directly asked for a sit down meeting with Sophie Mauzerolle, responsible for infrastructure to discuss which was publicly acknowledged and agreed to. I fired off an e-mail the next day to request a lock-down on a date. We have yet to get a response,” Bottausci told The Suburban.

Meanwhile, the CMM invited the demerged cities to the table last Monday, April 29, to review the PMAD (Plan métropolitain d’aménagement et de dévelopment) plans. “As far as DDO was concerned, there was nothing in the PMAD for transport, nothing for Sources, St-Jean and Saint-Charles in terms of transit oriented designations,” Bottausci said to The Suburban. Without the designation, the only three existing North-South arteries are not considered in the plans as public transport roads. “So no more buses,” Bottausci highlighted.

When asked about the CMM’s revision on DDO’s density proposals derived from public consultations, Bottausci replied that the consideration given went “in one ear and out the other.” The Jacques-Bizard corridor that “mysteriously disappeared”, as Bottausci puts it, from the plans last year was not included in last week’s revision meeting at the CMM either.

Bottausci requested explanations as to why his city’s proposals have not been considered, to which CMM representatives responded “We are in revision now.” According to Bottausci, the idea that the revision was happening before their eyes and that the demerged cities were made part of it at that table is an illusion, as revisions were clearly already made before he sat at the table. “They did revise and changed things around but none of that includes the plans we made derived from our findings at public consultations,” Bottausci explained.

Bottausci summoned the head of urban planning, Sylvain Boulliane, to send out a letter to make DDO’s requests known. “Our answer is ‘N…O…’ NO, we want what our residents want. We govern our own affairs and we know what our population needs. I don’t need them to make demands, especially while offering no support. Asking for densification in the wrong places, meanwhile offering no transportation plans? It is mind boggling. They want their cake and to eat it too. It does not make any sense and we are not having it,” Bottausci said to The Suburban.

When asked what the next Agglo meeting will look like given the “disconnect” between DDO’s plans and the PMAD, Bottausci said he would not comment save for the following — “We will align at the next Agglo in accordance with the response from CMM and the meeting with Sophie Mauzerolle. We are looking for answers and hopefully we get them before the next Agglo meet- that will determine how we engage there. If they don’t want to consider what we are asking, why should we consider what they are offering?” n

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Ex-DDO coach accused of sexual abuse will stand trial

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Robert Litvack, a former sports coach from Dollard-des-Ormeaux, accused of sexually assaulting a minor in 2021, tried to have the case thrown out based on the argument that he waited too long for the case proceedings to reach a trial. On Thursday, Quebec Court judge Jean-Jacques Gagné rejected the 43-year old’s request citing the Supreme Court of Canada’s established standard acceptable delay in provincial court cases set at 30 months. Litvack was less than two weeks short of the arguments made by his lawyer Claudel Trudeau-Nepton. The trial is set to begin in July.

Trudeau-Nepton argued that the delays put this case close to eight months over the established limit, however Justice Gagné eliminated certain periods from the calculation as it was not attributed to the Crown or institutional delays.

Shortly after Litvack was charged with touching a child under 16 for sexual purposes and sexual assault of a minor, Montreal police issued a press release in hopes of enabling other potential victims to come forward. Via his attorney, Litvack requested that the Crown turn over any related evidence that would justify the release. Significant delays took place as a result as the Crown prepared to move forward. Justice Gagné decided that since the delay was caused by the defence, the time period would be withdrawn from the calculation of overall delays related to Litvack’s request for dismissal. n

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“This is our DDO!” Bottausci says at urban consult

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The city of Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO) is inviting residents to the civic centre on April 4 and 6 for another round of public consultations on its development plans. Following two workshops with residents in the fall as well as two information sessions hosted by DDO’s urban planning department, a draft plan has been reviewed and presented to the public via the city’s website.

With the recommendation of the monitoring committee, made up of seven residents and three city officials, a booth will be set up at the entrance of city hall on a busy weekday and weekend day where residents can meet with the city’s urban planning staff to review and discuss the plans. “We are setting up at the entrance in order to be as visible as possible. Transparency is the key to this process as we rely heavily on the input of residents. We placed invites at every residence in DDO and announced the dates on our billboards,” Kerri-Lynn Strotmann, section chief — urban planning and territorial management, told The Suburban.

DDO urban planning director Sylvain Boulianne told The Suburban that this process is essential to the city preparing its propositions to the Agglo to avoid it sweeping its brush blindly across the West Island canvas. “It is our best shot at having the residents’ voices heard and maintaining their interests. We review the recommendations of residents and we determine the feasibility as part of an overall plan. This is what we want to show them and hear their feedback before finalizing the plans.”

“We have had a lot of input from our residents prior to the revision (by the city’s urban planning department) and we want to share this collective vision with all of our residents and answer their questions,” administrative assistant to the director general at the city of DDO Myriam Simani told The Suburban.

“We have not done a full review since 1982. This was one of the first projects on my to-do list when I was elected in 2017 and I wanted community engagement to be at the heart of this process. This is OUR Dollard-des-Ormeaux. It does not belong to the mayor or the city councillors. Development is one of the driving points for a city and we are really looking forward to seeing our residents’ dreams and aspirations come to life,” DDO mayor Alex Bottausci told The Suburban. n

“This is our DDO!” Bottausci says at urban consult Read More »

DDO’s Bar B Barn is closed after 44 years

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , ,

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

Bar B Barn owner, Tom McQueen, announced at the beginning of March that he had decided to close the West Island’s iconic restaurant after 44 years in business in Dollard-des-Ormeaux. After a week-long non stop line up, following the announcement, McQueen was forced to close earlier than planned as the restaurant ran out of ribs.

McQueen said that as an Irishman, he chose St. Patrick’s Day as the restaurant’s last day of operation to go out with a “bang”. Reservations filled up almost every table and time slot leading to St-Patrick’s day, but with pick up orders still available for one “last supper” just a few weeks before the Easter holidays, the restaurant’s inventory was cleaned out a week early.

Not all visitors could even make their full pilgrimage down the line up’s memory lane into the Barn as sentimental clients wanting a last visit were sent home each evening because not all could be served by closing hour.

Bar B Barn was founded by Manny Barnoff in 1967. The downtown location closed in 2020 after 53 years in business due to the financial effects of COVID-19 restrictions.

The West Island location had at least five employees who have been employed at the restaurant for 20 years or more. The family friendly atmosphere was always a hit in the West Island.

The iconic yellow barn sits on an ideal commercial corner lot, owned by the McQueen family on Sources Boulevard facing the Sources mega center. McQueen told said that he is not sure what the future of the lot and Barn holds. For the time being, it will remain a memorial edifice for multi-generational passersby. n

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