Several Montreal metro riders pepper-sprayed in altercation at Place-des-Arts
An argument between two men Thursday night at 11 p.m. escalated when one used pepper spray, affecting multiple passengers. Police are investigating.
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Multiple Montreal metro riders were pepper-sprayed Thursday night around 11 p.m. during an altercation between two men aboard a train at Place-des-Arts station.
Passengers called 911 and activated the train's emergency brake to bring it to a stop. STM special constables responded to assist passengers and help evacuate the trains, while Montreal police (SPVM), firefighters, and Urgences-santé also attended the scene.
"The clientele in the train called 911 and activated the emergency brake, which immobilized the train," said STM spokesperson Laurence Houde-Roy. "The special constables of the STM intervened on site to take charge of the clientele, help with the evacuation of the trains and ensure a return to normal."
The exact number of people affected by the pepper spray was not immediately available. The SPVM opened an investigation and the STM is cooperating with police. The circumstances surrounding the altercation — including the identities of the two men and what sparked the dispute — have not been disclosed.
The facts
What happened on the Montreal metro Thursday night?
Multiple passengers were pepper-sprayed during an altercation between two men aboard a train at Place-des-Arts station around 11 p.m. on August 7, 2026.
How did passengers respond?
Passengers called 911 and activated the train's emergency brake to stop it. STM special constables, Montreal police, firefighters, and Urgences-santé all responded to help evacuate and assist those affected.
How many people were pepper-sprayed?
The exact number of people affected by the pepper spray was not immediately available.
