Montreal Teen Arrested for Alleged Arson at Local Eatery

Police link recent arson attacks in Montreal to street gang extortion attempts.

A 15-year-old boy was arrested and charged with arson and related offenses following a fire at a restaurant in Montreal's St-Léonard borough.
The incident occurred early Sunday morning when a window was smashed and an incendiary device was thrown into the restaurant, causing minimal damage.
This restaurant was previously targeted by arson on September 20, though police have not disclosed a motive for the attacks.
Montreal police chief Fady Dagher stated that the city's recent surge in arson and firebombing incidents is connected to street gang efforts to control extortion rackets.
Businesses affected by extortion and similar crimes are encouraged by police to come forward and report these incidents.