In 2024, Eastern Canada experienced a harrowing year marked by a series of violent murders, including the tragic deaths of several women and an infant. Notable incidents involved former police officer Sylvio Champagne, a daycare tragedy, and the brutal stabbing of community member Suzanne Fortin. The year also saw high-profile cases, such as the death of serial killer Robert Pickton and a robbery-related shooting in Rimouski, leaving communities in shock and mourning.
Tragic Murders in Eastern Canada: A Year to Remember
In 2024, the eastern region of the province was rocked by a series of gruesome murders, many of which were overshadowed by an alarming surge in violent crimes linked to organized crime. According to reports, five of the nine victims were women, including a heartbreaking case involving an infant. Three of these murders remain unsolved, leaving communities in shock and mourning. Below is a look back at these devastating events that left a mark on many lives.
Key Incidents That Shook the Community
January 21: Former Police Officer’s Unexplained Death
On a fateful evening in January, Sylvio Champagne, a 52-year-old retired police officer known for his distinguished service, was found dead in his home on 187th Street in Saint-Georges. Authorities arrested Tony Maheux, a friend of Champagne, at the scene, but the details surrounding the death remain murky. Witnesses reported that Maheux, 53, appeared to be in distress and making alarming threats during the arrest. He was later taken to the hospital for evaluation before facing charges of second-degree murder.
March 21: Tragic Loss of a Young Life
In a heart-wrenching incident at a daycare in Beauport, a 14-month-old girl was found unresponsive by first responders. Despite efforts to revive her, she succumbed to her injuries later that day. The daycare’s educator, Genuite Kiwangala Mubwaka, faced serious charges, including assault and second-degree murder. Additionally, her partner, Josaphat Mayuba Ndele, was charged with being an accomplice after the fact. While the daycare was accredited, it had been operating prior to official recognition.
April 25: The Violent End of a Community Figure
In Montmagny, 78-year-old Suzanne Fortin, a beloved community member, was brutally stabbed in her home. The attack was so sudden that her breakfast remained untouched on the table when authorities arrived. Her neighbor, Éric Cantin, 33, turned himself in shortly after the incident, confessing to the crime. There was no known connection between Fortin and Cantin, and he was charged with second-degree murder, leaving many puzzled about the motive behind such a vicious act.
May 31: Infamous Serial Killer Meets His Fate
Robert Pickton, a notorious serial killer responsible for the deaths of multiple women in British Columbia, died in prison after a violent altercation with a fellow inmate. The attack involved stabbing and further assaults with makeshift weapons. Pickton, who was serving a life sentence, succumbed to his injuries nearly two weeks later, bringing a controversial chapter of Canadian criminal history to a close.
August 6: A Fatal Sibling Dispute
In the Limoilou neighborhood of Quebec City, a tragic incident unfolded as Jordan Lumbala, 30, was discovered bleeding in his brother’s apartment. His brother, Michel Mwendanga, 31, allegedly attacked him with a knife. The reasons behind this shocking confrontation remain unclear, and Mwendanga later turned himself in to the authorities. He was charged with second-degree murder, showing little emotion during his court hearing.
August 13: A Night of Violence
Ève Chachaï, a member of the Atikamekw community, suffered severe injuries at the Le Montagnais hotel in Chicoutimi and tragically passed away the following day. Her partner, Éric Latour, originally charged with aggravated assault, now faces involuntary manslaughter charges. Previously, he had a history of violence against Chachaï, raising questions about the community’s ability to protect vulnerable individuals.
November 28: A Fatal Robbery
Justine Hertemann, a 32-year-old employee at a local work clothing store, was fatally shot during a robbery gone wrong. Another employee, aged 25, survived the encounter, but the assailant remains at large. The incident has left the usually peaceful town shaken, with many local business owners considering enhanced security measures to prevent future tragedies.
November 29: A Life Lost to Crime
In Rimouski, 35-year-old Michael Fitzpatrick Lévesque was killed during an armed attack in an apartment building. Known to law enforcement, Fitzpatrick Lévesque had a history of criminal behavior, leading many to speculate that his murder was linked to organized crime. Authorities have yet to apprehend any suspects in connection with this case.
December 16: From Suspicion to Murder Investigation
Jennifer Morin, 45, was discovered dead in her apartment in Quebec City, initially categorized as a suspicious death. However, following a thorough investigation, it was reclassified as murder. Morin had previously been involved in a significant drug trafficking operation, raising complex questions about her untimely demise.