Fire breaks out at car dealership in Dorval

An SPVM police vehicle is seen in Montreal, Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi)

A used-car dealership in Dorval in Montreal’s West Island was the target of an alleged arson fire overnight from Sunday to Monday.

There were no reported injuries, but several vehicles were damaged.

The 911 dispatch centre received a call at 12:30 a.m. about an alarm that had gone off at the dealership on Chartier Avenue near 55e Avenue.

Upon arrival at the scene, Montreal police (SPVM) officers discovered the fire.

They then requested assistance from the fire department.

“According to initial reports, one or more suspects broke down the dealership’s front door to set the building on fire and then fled the scene before police arrived,” said Caroline Chèvrefils, a spokesperson with Montreal police.

A dozen vehicles inside were damaged, either by the fire or water from the sprinklers.

Incendiary materials were found at the scene, and the file has been transferred to the Montreal police arson squad.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on May 25, 2026.