Rabbi Michael Mizrahi was killed by accidental crossfire during a violent shooting targeting local Canadian police officers.
The ZAKA International Spokesperson’s Office officially confirmed on Monday night the tragic death of Rabbi Michael Moshe Mizrahi. Rabbi Mizrahi was struck by accidental gunfire during a violent shooting incident that apparently targeted police officers in the Côte-des-Neiges borough of Montreal, Canada.
The incident, which occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time in the heavily Jewish neighborhood, prompted authorities to issue an extraordinary emergency alert instructing residents to stay indoors, lock their doors, and remain away from windows. Security footage from the scene captured law enforcement forces storming a local supermarket with weapons drawn. Although the attack occurred in a prominently Jewish sector, Chabad spokesperson Rabbi Motti Seligson clarified that the shooting does not appear to have been specifically targeted at the Jewish community.
Casualties and Tactical Response
The shootout resulted in multiple casualties and required immediate intervention by local first responders and security units:
- Law Enforcement Loss: One police officer was killed in the line of duty, and another officer sustained wounds during the confrontation.
- Neutralization of the Assailant: The gunman, seen in footage dressed in a military uniform, was neutralized and eliminated at the scene by responding security forces.
- Conflicting Reports Silenced: Initial confusion over Rabbi Mizrahi’s status arose when conflicting information emerged suggesting he was evacuated to a hospital in serious condition. ZAKA volunteers and family liaisons ultimately confirmed that he succumbed to his critical injuries.
Repatriation and Halachic Dignity
ZAKA International Division volunteers living in Montreal immediately arrived at the scene to monitor the situation in real time alongside the local community. Following the official confirmation of death, ZAKA shifted its focus to supporting the grieving family and coordinating with Canadian authorities to secure the release of the body.
“Once forensics teams conclude their work at the scene, ZAKA International Division volunteers will enter the area to collect the remains and ensure the deceased is treated with the utmost dignity in accordance with Jewish law.” — Moishy Blech, ZAKA International Division Volunteer
Acting on an urgent request from the Rabbi’s family in Israel, ZAKA Lachish Region Operations Commander Yossi Landau confirmed that the organization is actively managing the necessary legal and logistical procedures to repatriate Rabbi Mizrahi’s body for a proper Jewish burial in the State of Israel.
