The Quebec coroner’s office has launched a public inquiry into the deaths of individuals experiencing homelessness in Montreal in recent months.
The inquiry, which will be presided over by Coroner Stéphanie Gamache, aims to “shed full light on the causes and circumstances surrounding several deaths of homeless individuals in Montreal.”
Five deaths will be examined, including those of Valmont Brousseau, 71, and Serge Martin, 57, which occurred on March 24 and 25.
Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada revealed that two homeless individuals had died within 24 hours in the city last week.
With tears in her eyes, Martinez Ferrada stated at a press conference that “it is not normal to lose people when we have the means to save them.”
Coroner Gamache’s investigation will also examine the deaths of Jennifer De Nobile, 30, on September 23, 2025; Marie Soleil Nantais, 46, on October 24, 2025; and Alain Paris, 55, on March 24, 2026.
If she deems it necessary, the coroner may consider other deaths that occurred under similar circumstances “in order to provide a comprehensive view of the situation.”
According to the coroner’s office, the public inquest will allow for an “in-depth” analysis of the causes and circumstances of the deaths and will shed light on contributing factors.
“In a context where deaths among homeless individuals are on the rise, a thorough examination is needed to address the underlying human and social issues,” emphasized Quebec’s Chief Coroner, Reno Bernier, in a press release issued Wednesday morning.
At the conclusion of her investigation, Coroner Gamache will issue recommendations to better protect people experiencing homelessness and prevent further deaths.
Details regarding the investigation’s progress will be released at a later date and will be available on the coroner’s website.
–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews