Three Years After Deadly Fire, Police Arrest Owner of Old Montreal Building

Montreal Police Chief Inspector David Shane speaks to reporters on March 18, 2026 about an investigation into a deadly 2023 fire at an Old Montreal heritage property. The Canadian Press/Christopher Katsarov

Police say they have arrested the owner of an Old Montreal building that went up in flames in 2023, claiming the lives of seven people.

Police say Emile Benamor, 63, faces seven counts of manslaughter and eight counts of criminal negligence causing bodily harm.