Laval QC ☕ Morning Briefing
Good morning,
We’re starting close to home today with a renewed appeal from Laval police in the investigation into the January collision that claimed the lives of two children. More broadly, there’s plenty of practical news for daily life: slightly cheaper gas, inflation ticking back up, and a milder week ahead for the Montréal area.
This Morning’s Discussions
- Laval police renew their call for witnesses: Investigators are still looking for information, security footage, or dash‑cam video related to the fatal January 5 collision on Route 335.
- Gas prices dip as the federal excise tax is suspended: The change is now in effect, with an expected savings of 10 cents per litre on regular gas and 4 cents on diesel.
- Inflation reaches 2.4 per cent in March in Canada: The increase is driven mainly by energy prices.
- Montréal shifts from a cold start to a warm end of the week: After a Monday high of 4°C, temperatures could climb to 17°C by Thursday.
- Five arrests in an AI‑linked smart‑glasses fraud scheme: The case totals $500,000 in losses, and two suspects are still wanted nationwide.
Close to Home
- Gatineau and the Pontiac remain under flood watch: The 2023 scenario is still being considered as water levels continue to rise.
- Madawaska’s success is lifting its neighbours too: The economic growth of the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation is extending beyond its own commercial development and benefiting surrounding communities.
- Construction starts surge in Québec City: They have more than doubled since the start of 2026 compared with the same period last year.
- Eight minors arrested in a Longueuil restaurant: Police seized an air pistol, a machete, and a knife after an intimidation incident.
Across Canada
- Airports and their language obligations head to the Supreme Court: The case is being closely watched by francophone groups and airport authorities.
- Canadian Armed Forces recruitment hits a 30‑year high: A total of 7,310 new members joined last year.
- Canada expands direct flights to China: The government frames the move as support for trade, tourism, and supply chains.
- Commercial real estate shows signs of rebalancing: Office and industrial vacancy rates fell at the same time for the first time since 2020.
International
- A 7.5‑magnitude earthquake strikes northern Japan: A tsunami alert was issued and more than 128,000 people received evacuation notices.
- An Iranian cargo ship disabled in the Gulf of Oman: The U.S. Navy fired on the vessel’s engine room.
- The fragile truce around Iran remains uncertain: Talks are still shaky as the announced deadline approaches.
- Eight children shot and killed in Louisiana: Police say some of the victims were related to the suspect.
Top Story
Laval police renew investigation into January collision that killed two children
Laval police are once again asking the public for help in the investigation into the January 5 collision on Route 335, between Dagenais Boulevard and Saint‑Saëns Street. The case remains active and involves allegations of dangerous driving that caused multiple injuries in addition to the deaths of two children.
Investigators are seeking anyone who may have seen something that night, as well as any surveillance or dash‑cam footage that could help move the case forward.
It’s the kind of reminder that still hits hard. When police return publicly to a file, it’s often because they hope a forgotten detail, an overlooked image, or a silent witness will finally make a difference.
In Detail
Federal excise tax suspension takes effect and lowers gas prices
After last week’s warning about upcoming changes, the suspension of the federal excise tax on gasoline is now in effect. It translates to savings of about 10 cents per litre on regular gas and 4 cents on diesel.
For many households, it’s not a game‑changer, but it’s the kind of shift you notice quickly at the pump. And over a busy week, small amounts add up. Cars have a way of always coming back for their share.
Inflation rises to 2.4 per cent in Canada, driven mainly by energy
Inflation reached 2.4 per cent in March. The increase is largely tied to higher energy prices.
Placed alongside the temporary drop in gas prices, it paints a mixed picture: immediate relief at the pump, but broader pressure that continues to shape the cost of living.
Montréal warms up after a cold start to the week
The week begins on a chilly note in Montréal, with a few early flurries Monday, a high of 4°C, and a morning wind chill. Skies should clear later, and the trend gradually warms.
Tuesday’s high is expected to reach 8°C, then 11°C Wednesday. The real shift arrives Thursday with a forecast high of 17°C under partly sunny skies. Cloudier conditions return for the weekend, with a chance of showers Saturday.
For Laval residents, it’s not a full weather report, but the message is simple: keep the coat handy today, then get ready for a milder stretch. Spring still likes to test patience, but it finally seems willing to negotiate.
Five people arrested in $500,000 AI‑linked smart‑glasses fraud
A fraud scheme totalling $500,000 has led to five arrests. The operation relied on the use of AI‑enabled smart glasses.
Two additional suspects remain at large and are now the subject of Canada‑wide arrest warrants. The case is a reminder of how quickly new technologies can end up on the wrong side of the counter.
Spotlight
The Madawaska file deserves a moment of its own, because it shows how economic success can radiate beyond a single community. When a local achievement lifts its neighbours too, you get something rare and valuable: progress that circulates.
Before You Go
That’s your morning roundup.
We wish you a grounded day, a perfectly warm coffee, and just enough softness to go with the milder weather on the way. ☕