What happened in Laval near a coffee shop
A deadly shooting occurred Wednesday morning in Laval outside a coffee shop near the Highway 440 interchange with 100th Avenue. The incident was reported to police at 10:30 a.m. by witnesses. The deceased has been identified in reports as Charalambos Theologou, the leader of the gang known as the Greeks of Chomedey, and nicknamed “Bobby the Greek.” Two other people were seriously injured. Police have not confirmed a final victim count at the time of reporting, and no suspect has yet been arrested. No weapon has been recovered. The Sûreté du Québec (SQ) has taken over the investigation because of the involvement of organized crime in the case.
Who was involved? The Greeks of Chomedey
The shooting appears to be linked to organized crime activity, with Theologou described as a gang leader associated with the Greeks of Chomedey. The incident unfolded in a busy commercial corridor, heightening concerns about public safety in Laval. Witnesses reported hearing multiple shots as the incident occurred in broad daylight, underscoring the unsettling nature of the event for the community.
Background on the gang and the victims
The Greeks of Chomedey have surfaced in local crime discussions for years, and this event marks a significant and violent development in the region’s ongoing struggle with street gangs. Authorities have not released additional information about other individuals involved, or potential motives, as the investigation unfolds.
Official responses and investigation
Laurent Arsenault, spokesperson for the SPL, said the immediate area was secure, but he urged the public to avoid the sector as investigators worked. In Quebec City, Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière reacted to the incident, saying, “As a father, it’s concerning that something like this happens in broad daylight.” He added that there is “a lot of police activity and a lot of pressure against organized crime. That confirms we are in the right place.”
Laval’s regional minister, Christopher Skeete, voiced similar concerns, noting “we have noticed an increase in violence” and stressing that it is not normal for street gangs to operate in such areas. A SQ press briefing was held in the early afternoon, with additional updates from SPL and the Laval city hall expected later in the day. Investigators, including canine units, were seen conducting searches around the perimeter while potential witnesses were approached for statements.
What happens next
With the SQ leading the inquiry due to the organized-crime dimension, authorities will pursue connections, motive, and the identities of those responsible. The large security perimeter and ongoing police activity are expected to continue as investigators gather evidence and speak with witnesses. Officials asked residents and shoppers to steer clear of the area to preserve the integrity of the investigation and safety of the community.
Impact on the community
Quebec’s public safety leadership emphasized that daytime violence of this kind is unusual for Laval, reinforcing the government’s commitment to combating organized crime. The case remains active, and authorities said further updates would follow as information becomes available.
