Emergency services launched an extensive search in Montreal’s Old Port on Sunday, July 12, 2026, after a man fell into the Saint Lawrence River. The incident, reported at approximately 6:07 p.m. near the Bonsecours Terrace, prompted a multi-hour rescue operation involving the Service de sécurité incendie de Montréal (SIM) and the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM). As of late Sunday evening, the individual remained missing, with specialized diving teams deployed to the site.
Search Operations and Emergency Response
The rescue effort began shortly after witnesses alerted authorities to the man’s fall. According to 16-year-old witness Goldina Batuli, the scene was intense, with bystanders calling for help and urging others to dial 9-1-1. Another witness, Oussman Toure, reported seeing the man attempt to swim before he disappeared beneath the surface. Throughout the evening, emergency crews utilized watercraft and, according to reports, thermal imaging equipment to scan the river. By 9:00 p.m., the SIM concluded its initial surface intervention, and the SPVM took command of the operation. Shortly before 10:00 p.m., police divers arrived on the scene to begin underwater search efforts.
Did You Know?
The search in the Old Port coincided with the Festival Un Goût des Caraïbes, an event that drew large crowds to the waterfront. As emergency vehicles gathered, festival activities were interrupted, and many attendees remained at the site throughout the evening, waiting for updates while also gathering for a scheduled fireworks display.
Broader Context of Water-Related Incidents
This incident follows a broader trend of water-related fatalities. Raynald Hawkins, director general of the Société de sauvetage du Québec, stated that as of Friday, there had been 30 water-related deaths recorded since the beginning of the year. This figure represents an increase compared to the 26 deaths reported by the same date last year. Additionally, authorities were managing a separate missing person case on Sunday at Lac Sept-Îles, located in the Portneuf region, where an individual disappeared after leaving their boat.
Ongoing Investigation
The SPVM has not yet determined the circumstances surrounding the man’s fall. As of late Sunday, spokesperson Johany Charland confirmed the individual remained missing and that the police tactical intervention group was actively searching the river. Officials have not confirmed a drowning at this stage, and the investigation into whether the incident was accidental or related to other factors is ongoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the search?
As of late Sunday night, the man remains missing. Police divers from the SPVM arrived on the scene around 10:00 p.m. to conduct underwater searches after initial surface efforts by the fire department concluded.
Were there witnesses to the incident?
Yes, several witnesses were present. Goldina Batuli, 16, reported calling 9-1-1, and Oussman Toure stated that he observed the man trying to stay afloat before he disappeared.
Is this the only water-related incident reported this weekend?
No, authorities are also responding to a separate disappearance at Lac Sept-Îles in the Portneuf region, where a person went missing after leaving their boat.
How might the increase in water-related accidents this year influence public safety protocols for waterfront events?
