Civilian Killed in Montreal Shooting 'Died a Hero,' Son Says at Funeral

Michel Mizrahi, a 68-year-old man described as a pillar of his community, died a hero after being caught in a deadly shooting in Montreal's Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood. Family and friends are remembering him as an exceptionally kind and giving person who always put others first.

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He was the most positive person. He always put other people before himself. And was always ready to help anyone in need.

Mizrahi was on his way to meet his son for coffee when the shooting erupted outside a hotel. Witnesses and his son, Shlomi Mizrahi, recounted that he stopped to help others reach safety amidst the chaos. "He died a hero because that’s who he was," Shlomi Mizrahi told mourners at the funeral service.

Hundreds gathered to honor Mizrahi, who was born in Lebanon and had lived in Montreal for over four decades. His lifelong friend, Alain Pereque, shared memories of their inseparable bond since childhood in Beirut. Pereque noted that Mizrahi's decision to move to Canada permanently after visiting for his wedding underscored his commitment to his new home.

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He died a hero because that’s who he was.

Rabbi Mendel Raskin of Beth Chabad described Mizrahi as a fixture in the congregation and the wider Côte Saint-Luc community. He highlighted Mizrahi's generosity as a businessman who sold men's suits, often giving them away for free to those who couldn't afford them. "He was always giving, giving and smiling. Everybody loved him," Raskin said.

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It’s like an emotional roller-coaster.

Reverend Daniel Benlolo noted Mizrahi's selfless act of guiding others to safety, stating, "He stayed and he asked other people to run away, to escape, to find refuge. He could have just laid down... he paid the full price for it, unfortunately." Liel Navi, who was near the scene, confirmed Mizrahi's actions, stating he alerted them to the gunshots and helped them react quickly to find cover.

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It’s very hard, very hard.