Montreal building owner charged in 2023 Old Montreal fire that killed seven

Montreal police say they have arrested a 63-year-old building owner in connection with a 2023 fire in Old Montreal that killed seven people.

Police allege Emile Benamor faces 15 charges, including seven counts of manslaughter and eight counts of criminal negligence related to the March 16, 2023 blaze at a heritage property on Place D’Youville. The allegations have not been tested in court.

According to a Montreal police service news conference, investigators had previously identified traces of an accelerant at the scene, prompting a criminal investigation into the fire. Chief-Insp. David Shane said Wednesday the arrest follows that investigation, which has been ongoing since the incident.

Police have said that six of the seven victims were staying in illegal short-term rental units داخل the building, which dates back to 1890. Authorities have previously raised concerns about safety compliance and enforcement related to such rentals.

Shane said police are continuing a separate arson investigation into the cause of the fire. No further details were provided about that aspect of the case.