12-year-old robbed at gunpoint in Rivière-des-Prairies park during soccer game
Three teenagers took the boy's phone Sunday at Pasquale-Gattuso Park. Police are investigating whether a firearm was involved.
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A 12-year-old boy was robbed at gunpoint Sunday afternoon at Pasquale-Gattuso Park in Rivière-des-Prairies while playing soccer. Three teenagers approached him, demanded his phone, and showed what appeared to be a gun before taking it. The boy was not physically injured.
Montreal police confirmed the investigation is ongoing but said they cannot confirm whether a firearm was involved until the weapon is recovered. Officers canvassed the neighbourhood for doorbell-camera footage in the hours after the incident.
The boy's mother, Ivana, described the moment she arrived at the park. "I got a call from my son's friend saying that he got threatened with a gun and that his phone was stolen. I couldn't believe it. I was shaking when I got to the park. I flew there with my sister and I saw my son traumatized – white like a ghost," she said.
The family has changed their routines since Sunday. The boy's father, Steve, who is currently recovering from major leg surgery with limited mobility, said his son is now afraid to visit the park alone. "He's just scared to go to the park, and he was just there having fun. I told him we're not going to the park alone anymore unless there's a parent there," Steve said.
Ivana expressed frustration about safety in the neighbourhood, which residents had previously described as family-oriented. "[This] used to be a safe place and now it's not safe anymore. When people see guns … I mean, me too, I'd be terrified. Imagine kids. My son's gonna remember for the rest of his life," she said.
Police have not confirmed any arrests. Anyone with information can contact the SPVM.
Have police made any arrests or identified suspects in the incident?
Will the SPVM increase patrols or community presence at the park following this robbery?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
What was stolen from the boy?
The boy's phone was stolen during the robbery at Pasquale-Gattuso Park.
When did the robbery happen?
The robbery occurred on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in the afternoon at Pasquale-Gattuso Park in Rivière-des-Prairies.
How many teenagers were involved?
Three teenagers approached the boy, demanded his phone, and took it.
Was the boy physically hurt?
No, the boy was not physically injured during the robbery.
