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Major police operation underway in Montreal’s Mile End neighbourhood

Nov 13, 2020 | 1:18 PM

MONTREAL — A major police operation was underway Friday in a neighbourhood north of downtown Montreal, near the offices of video-game maker Ubisoft.

Police officers holding firearms could be seen out outside the building on St-Laurent Boulevard in the city’s Mile End neighbourhood, and at least three ambulances were standing by.

A large perimeter has been cordoned off by police tape, and Montreal police are asking people to avoid the area.

The police force said on Twitter that officers are currently validating information and more details will follow.

A police spokeswoman said there were no immediate reports of injuries.

Hugo Lefevre, who works at Ubisoft, said he had just returned from lunch when a rumour started spreading through the building that there was a potential hostage situation in the building.

He said at first he thought it might be a prank, but then he was met at the door by police with weapons drawn.

“It doesn’t feel real,” he said.

He said he’s been in contact with colleagues inside the building who are with police and are safe.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 13, 2020.

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This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship.

The Canadian Press