19-year-old arrested after anti-AI protest turns violent on Jeanne-Mance Street

A 19-year-old was arrested for armed assault Wednesday evening after an anti-AI protest organized by Résistance Montréal near Montreal's All In conference turned violent on Jeanne-Mance Street between René-Lévesque Boulevard and Sainte-Catherine Street.

The march remained peaceful for over an hour before tensions escalated when protesters reached a fenced-off area on Jeanne-Mance Street. Some individuals at the front of the march attempted to push fences toward Montreal police officers, and an altercation then ensued. An object was thrown at a police officer during the confrontation.

The arrested man had a bloodied face and complained of pain; he was taken away by ambulance. Five police officers restrained him on the ground. The Montreal police (SPVM) fired tear gas projectiles at least five times, and a riot squad then dispersed hundreds of protesters.

Earlier in the protest, masked individuals attempted to block bicycle police using store panels found in the street. Dozens of individuals equipped themselves with masks or glasses to protect against tear gas. Numerous chants and slogans targeting police were heard throughout the event. Vehicle damage was reported to authorities. No other arrests were made.

The specific charges laid against the 19-year-old and the identity of the object thrown have not been disclosed.