On a typical Halloween, over 3,000 people walk around the Château Frontenac. But on Halloween 2020, Old Quebec City saw a deadly stabbing. This event shocked Canada.
This post looks back at October 31, 2020, in Québec City. Carl Girouard walked the historic district with a sword. Two people, François Duchesne, 56, and Suzanne Clermont, 61, were killed. Five others were hurt.
The scene was just steps away from cafés and stone walls. These areas usually attract tourists and families.
The aim is to explain what happened and its impact. It covers the route, police response, trial, and verdict. It also explores grief, resolve, and the voices of those who lived through the night.
Readers will get a brief guide to the timeline, setting, and legal outcome for Carl Girouard. They will see how a beloved place faced an unthinkable act. They will also learn how Québec City remembered, supported survivors, and moved forward.
Overview of the Halloween 2020 Quebec City Sword Attacks
On Halloween 2020, québec city’s historic core was shocked. The evening was calm but quickly turned urgent. People near the Château Frontenac Quebec felt fear.
The night of Oct. 31, 2020 in Old Quebec
Oct. 31, 2020, brought many to Old Quebec’s streets. The area was lit up, and people enjoyed the evening. But then, a sword appeared, and panic spread.
Witnesses saw a man moving with purpose. The quiet area turned into a scene of panic and sirens.
Random victims and a medieval costume near Château Frontenac Quebec
Victims were chosen randomly, causing widespread fear. A medieval outfit was seen, but it was a katana that made the threat real. People near Château Frontenac Quebec tried to escape.
The randomness of the attacks made the situation even more tragic. Bystanders had little time to react as the attacker moved around.
Quebec stabbing timeline around 10:30 p.m.
The stabbing started around 10:30 p.m., near the hotel complex. The attacker then moved through the streets. Emergency services were called, and police quickly responded.
Multiple assaults were reported in a short time. The police arrested the attacker near the historic core, ending the scene.
| Key Moment | Location Context | Observed Details | Public Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial sighting the night of Oct. 31, 2020 | Old Quebec, near Dufferin Terrace | Medieval-style clothing noted amid Halloween 2020 crowds | Confusion as costume blended with festivities |
| Attempt near landmark | Perimeter of Château Frontenac Quebec | Entry effort thwarted; movement redirected to nearby streets | People dispersed from hotel approach routes |
| Quebec stabbing reports around 10:30 p.m. | Historic lanes and stairs | Katana seen; victims selected at random | Rapid escalation and emergency calls |
| Police containment | Core of québec city’s old district | Officers converge and apprehend suspect | Area secured; medical aid reaches the injured |
Victims, Survivors, and Community Impact in Québec City
On a quiet night in Old Quebec City, lives changed. The loss, the strength, and the response reveal a deep community impact that endures across streets and homes.
Remembering François Duchesne, 56, and Suzanne Clermont, 61
Friends and colleagues recall François Duchesne as warm and engaged. He was a presence felt well beyond work. Tributes often use the name duchesne as a touchstone for compassion and civic spirit.
Neighbours honour Suzanne Clermont for her kindness and steady smile. Candles and flowers mark her path through Old Quebec City, where her name is spoken with care.
Injured survivors and their ongoing rehabilitation
Among the injured survivors, hairdresser Lisa Mahmoud has shared clear memories of the attack and its aftermath. She continues rehabilitation to rebuild strength and motor skills, step by careful step.
Medical teams highlight progress measured in daily gains. Family support, peer groups, and steady routines help the injured survivors manage pain, fear, and fatigue during rehabilitation.
Local memorials on des Remparts Street and Old Quebec City
Vigils rose swiftly on des Remparts Street, where residents placed lanterns and handwritten notes. The setting, within Old Quebec City, carries quiet echoes at dusk.
Loved ones gather and speak the names, including François Duchesne and Suzanne Clermont, as part of shared mourning. The community impact is visible in these gestures and the care shown to injured survivors.
| Person or Group | Location in Old Quebec City | Focus of Tribute or Support | Ongoing Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| François Duchesne | Near cultural venues and public squares | Remembrance of civic engagement | Space for reflection and storytelling |
| Suzanne Clermont | Memorial on des Remparts Street | Neighbourhood vigils and candles | Quiet sites to honour grief |
| Injured survivors | Clinics and community centres | Rehabilitation, peer support, counselling | Long-term care, mobility therapy |
| Families and friends | Homes and shared gathering spots | Mutual aid, meals, and rides | Respite, legal guidance, scheduling help |
Carl Girouard
Carl Girouard grew up in Sainte‑Thérèse, a suburb near Montreal. He talked about a mission he had for years, starting at 18. He said he lived two lives, one in the real world and another in medieval video games and samurai stories.
His mom, Monique Dalphond, remembered his early struggles and visits to a child psychologist. As he grew older, he became fascinated with katana swords and samurai outfits. He also had few friends. The prosecution showed evidence of his trips to Old Québec, his samurai costume, and removing tattoos he saw as “impure.”
In court, Carl Girouard confessed to the crimes but claimed he had a mental disorder. He said his mission was to cause chaos and inspire “alter egos.” He believed his actions were guided by his love for medieval games and samurai culture.
| Origin | Influences | Preparation Indicators | Court Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sainte‑Thérèse, north of the Montreal area | medieval video games; samurai culture; katana swords | drives to Old Québec; costume assembly; tattoo removal | mental disorder claim with a stated mission starting at 18 |
| Family Context | Psychological History | Identity Framing | Admissions |
| Monique Dalphond noted early behavioural issues | child psychologist in elementary years | “split” between everyday life and the mission | admitted killings and injuries while contesting responsibility |
How the Attacks Unfolded Around Château Frontenac and Old Quebec
On Halloween night in 2020, Old Quebec’s heart turned from joy to fear. Evidence showed a careful plan, not a random act. The streets near Château Frontenac Quebec were quiet, setting the scene.
Attempted entry at the Château Frontenac and street assaults
He first tried to enter the famous hotel but found a locked door. He then moved to nearby streets. Later, he attacked people in the historic area, using alleys and stairs.
Witnesses and videos confirmed his path was near the hotel.
Katana details, black clothing, and short-sleeved kimono
He wore black and a short-sleeved kimono, inspired by video games. His weapon was a Japanese katana, 76.9 centimetres long. He used both hands to wield it.
Police found his costume and gear matched earlier planning in quebec.
Police Quebec response and immediate arrest near the historic district
Minutes after the calls, Police Quebec rushed to the area. They tracked the suspect and arrested him quickly. This action closed streets in Old Quebec and secured Château Frontenac Quebec.
Location, costume, and timing all played a role. Old Quebec’s layout influenced the events before the Police Quebec’s swift action.
Inside the Trial: Charges, Testimony, and Expert Evidence
At the Quebec Superior Court, the case unfolded from the night’s violence to legal elements. Jurors were given a clear timeline, charges, and expert analysis. Each piece of evidence was carefully considered against the criminal responsibility standards.
First-degree murder and attempted murder counts
Carl Girouard was charged with two counts of first‑degree murder for the deaths of François Duchesne and Suzanne Clermont. He also faced five counts of attempted murder for other victims in Old Quebec. He admitted to the acts, focusing on intent and mental state.
The courtroom often discussed planning, preparation, and choice. Prosecutors highlighted the steps taken before the attacks. The defence focused on Girouard’s mental state at the time, questioning if he could tell right from wrong.
Testimony about a “mission,” doubts after the second killing
Girouard testified about a “top secret” mission linked to Halloween and a full moon. He felt compelled to kill, believing the task had a purpose only he understood.
After the second death, he had doubts. He expected a sense of accomplishment but felt none. He decided there should be no more deaths. The court explored why these doubts emerged and their impact on intent.
Forensic perspectives on delusion, psychosis, and hypervigilant narcissism
Experts debated whether Girouard’s account showed delusion or psychosis. Defence witnesses suggested his mindset was a break from reality, affecting his moral judgment.
Crown experts, including Dr. Sylvain Faucher and William Pothier, described hypervigilant narcissism and a desire for shocking notoriety. They argued that entrenched delusions do not suddenly lift without treatment. They also pointed out that his actions during and after the attacks did not match a fixed psychotic belief.
The Quebec Superior Court focused on legal standards throughout. The record balanced first‑degree murder elements with the NCR claim. It also set the attempted murder counts within the same evidentiary framework.
Verdict and Sentencing Highlights
The courtroom in Québec City fell silent as the jury returned after nearly five days. On May 20, 2022, the panel’s work ended in a guilty verdict. This verdict set the tone for sombre court reactions and focused attention on the next legal steps. It marked another day for a community to process the harm.
Guilty on two counts of first-degree murder and five attempted murders
The jury deliberations spanned close to a week, with 11 members seated when the decision came. They found Carl Girouard guilty on all charges: two counts of first-degree murder and five counts of attempted murder. Observers noted his shaved head and calm posture as the clerk read each count.
Survivors, including Lisa Mahmoud, voiced relief in the hallway, while relatives of Suzanne Clermont and François Duchesne balanced grief with a sense of acknowledgement. These court reactions reflected the weight of the evidence and the patience shown through a long process.
Life sentence without parole eligibility for 25 years
In June 2022, the court imposed a life sentence with parole ineligibility 25 years. The sentencing hearing date set in early June allowed space for victim impact statements. It clarified how the penalty would be recorded on the record.
The Crown tracked Supreme Court guidance on sentence stacking from the Quebec City mosque case. They understood how future rulings may shape their approach. The framework here fixed parole ineligibility 25 years. Families measured each day against the stability of that order.
Jury deliberations, court reactions, and next legal steps
With the guilty verdict entered, attention turned to procedural follow-ups. The judge scheduled filings, while counsel outlined timelines for any motions that may arise. Administrative details, including exhibits and transcripts, moved to archiving.
Community members in Old Quebec described steady, restrained court reactions as they left the building. Each day has centred on recovery, with the record now clear. The pathway for appeals and post-trial review is defined by statute and precedent.
Defence Strategy, Appeal Intentions, and Legal Nuance
The courtroom focus shifted to how the NCR defence shaped testimony and what may come next. Counsel traced a path through mental-health evidence, while mapping appeal intentions tied to trial conduct and rulings. Each issue is framed within evolving legal precedent in Quebec and across Canada.
Not criminally responsible claim and cross-examination issues
The defence pressed a not criminally responsible claim built on delusion and psychosis. They described a split self and a compulsion to act. During cross‑examination, counsel argued that clinical signs supported the NCR defence.
They also flagged how questioning unfolded around motive and planning. They suggested that certain inferences leaned beyond the record. These concerns, they said, may inform if the case moves to appeal.
Judge’s comments on interrogation silence and precedent
Quebec Superior Court Justice Richard Grenier addressed how the Crown framed police interviews and interrogation silence. He noted it is not the prosecutor’s role to justify the length or tactics of questioning. He signalled caution about drawing meaning from pauses or refusals to speak.
He referenced a Quebec Court of Appeal decision ordering a retrial in a comparable context. This decision underscored the weight of legal precedent. It sharpened attention on how silence is treated when mental state is central.
Defence plans to appeal and legal grounds
After the verdict, lawyer Pierre Gagnon stated clear appeal intentions. He said the outcome diverged from the NCR defence presented at trial. The team reviewed proceedings during jury deliberations to isolate legal grounds that could be raised.
Issues under study include how interrogation silence was portrayed. They also looked at the scope of cross‑examination on mental state. They considered whether prosecutorial conduct during lengthy interview questioning affected fairness. Each strand may intersect with legal precedent noted by Justice Richard Grenier.
Voices from Québec: Survivors and Families Respond
In Old Québec, community voices spoke up with calm words. Survivors and families talked about healing. They shared stories of dignity and personal experiences.
They talked about the importance of care, courage, and time to mourn. Each story highlighted the need for support and understanding.
Lisa Mahmoud’s resilience, recovery, and relief at the verdict
Lisa Mahmoud shared a night that changed her life and her long journey of recovery. She talked about rebuilding her strength and relearning to do hair. At the courthouse, she felt relief at verdict, saying it helped her regain her daily life and freedom.
Her words focused on staying strong and valuing herself. Lisa Mahmoud talked about small victories like walking further and holding scissors longer. She said it’s through these small steps that people can heal.
Statements from Jacques Fortin and Marie-Claude Veilleux
Families shared words filled with both sadness and warmth. Jacques Fortin, Suzanne Clermont’s husband, spoke of his sorrow and joy from their time together. He said the verdict gives him a chance to grieve with purpose, even with the pain of her absence.
Marie‑Claude Veilleux, Clermont’s sister-in-law, was at court every day. She saw the verdict as a step towards safety for everyone, but acknowledged it can’t erase the past. Her words were about patience, being present, and caring for those who are healing.
Balancing sorrow with a sense of justice served
The city’s mood was quiet and thoughtful. People balanced their grief with a sense of justice served. Their stories wove together sorrow and resolution, honouring the victims and supporting those healing.
They didn’t seek to end their pain but to find a balance. They encouraged neighbours to look out for each other, listen, and hold space for both pain and hope.
Context and Misconceptions People Search For
There’s a lot of confusion between Montreal and Quebec City. People often search for “montreal murder” instead of the correct city. This section aims to clear up these misunderstandings and provide accurate information.
Clarifying City Mix‑ups and Headline Drift
The attacks took place in Québec City, near the Château Frontenac and Dufferin Terrace. Montreal is a different city, about two and a half hours away by car. Some searches for “montreal murder” are actually about Québec City, handled by Police Québec and the Quebec Superior Court.
Girouard is from Sainte‑Thérèse, north of Montreal. This adds to the confusion between Montreal and Quebec City. The real scene is in Québec City, with landmarks and clear jurisdiction.
Common Misspellings and Why They Matter
People often type wrong city names like quebe city or quebec citt. These mistakes can lead to unrelated content. Using the correct city name helps keep information accurate and supports local awareness.
Using the right terms helps distinguish this case from others. It ensures that information is verified and points to the correct place, date, and court in Québec City.
Place, Landmarks, and Visitor Touchpoints
The Old Quebec setting is a UNESCO‑listed area with narrow streets and squares. Visitors walk along Dufferin Terrace and explore Rue du Trésor and Rue Saint‑Louis. These areas are key to understanding the location.
Neighbourhood names, street markers, and the riverfront help pinpoint where events happened. This focus enhances local awareness and reduces confusion with Montreal vs Quebec City debates.
| Search Phrase | What People Mean | Correct Location | Nearby Landmarks | Jurisdiction/Institutions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| montreal murder | General crime news tied to Montreal | Montréal (separate city) | Place des Arts, Old Port of Montreal | Service de police de la Ville de Montréal |
| Montreal vs Quebec City | Comparing cities or mixing cases | Distinct cities, separate files | Château Frontenac vs Mount Royal | Police Québec vs SPVM; Quebec Superior Court in Québec City |
| quebe city | Misspelling of Québec City | Québec City | Old Quebec, Dufferin Terrace | Police Québec; Quebec Superior Court |
| quebec citt | Misspelling of Québec City | Québec City | Rue Saint‑Louis, des Remparts Street | Police Québec; Crown prosecutors in Québec City |
| quebec cory | Typos leading to wrong results | Likely Québec City | Fortifications of Québec, Terrasse Dufferin | Police Québec; provincial courts |
| quebec? | Vague query about the city | Québec City | Old Quebec setting, Château Frontenac | Police Québec; Quebec Superior Court |
Quebec City Backdrop: Place, Season, and Safety
Old Quebec is famous for its stone lanes and river views. This is true around Halloween when the nights get cooler. People check the Quebec City weather by month to plan their walks.
Knowing the typical temperature in late October helps visitors prepare. They need to think about layers, footing, and how long they’ll be outside.
The heritage setting in Old Quebec is safe and well-lit. Police Quebec teams are visible, adding to the safety. This is important during events and evening walks in the Upper Town.
Quebec City weather by month and temperature Quebec City around Halloween
Seasonal patterns affect how people use the streets at festivals and gatherings. Short days and cool air can change foot traffic and how long people stay in open squares.
| Month | Typical Daytime High (°C) | Typical Night Low (°C) | Conditions Noted around Halloween | Practical Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| September | 17–20 | 7–10 | Mild afternoons; cooler evenings | Layer a light jacket for late walks in Old Quebec |
| October | 8–12 | -1–4 | Crisp nights; early frost possible around Halloween | Wear warm layers and traction-friendly footwear |
| November | 2–5 | -6–0 | Frequent wind; first wet snow | Plan shorter evening outings and check forecasts |
| December | -5–-2 | -12–-8 | Snow cover common; icy patches | Use winter boots and allow extra travel time |
Public safety messaging and Police Quebec presence in historic areas
Seasonal advisories focus on lighting, footwear, and planning routes. This aligns with public safety goals in busy areas. Police Quebec patrols iconic sites and transit nodes regularly.
Community groups and city services share simple safety tips. They advise staying in lit areas, keeping phones charged, and knowing emergency call points. This approach fits the rhythm of festivals and late-night restaurants.
Community resilience and reflections on the night of
Residents, merchants, and cultural partners have supported each other from the start. They honour shared spaces and care for one another. Candles, quiet vigils, and restored routines show their dedication.
Reflections on the night of remind locals and visitors of the stories calm streets hold. In the days that follow, they return to promenades and plazas with a focus on dignity, memory, and neighbourly watchfulness.
Conclusion
The Halloween 2020 night in Old Quebec is a painful memory for Canada. Carl Girouard’s stabbing took two lives and injured five. It shocked a city known for its calm and heritage charm.
The event happened near the Château Frontenac, not in Montreal. This detail is important for understanding and remembering the event.
The court process brought clarity. Girouard was found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder and five attempted murders. He was sentenced to life with no parole for 25 years.
Jurors learned about his claimed “mission” and his doubts after the second killing. Expert testimony suggested hypervigilant narcissism, not a sustained delusion. This outcome set a firm marker for accountability under Canadian law.
The community is feeling the impact, but resilience is strong. Survivors like Lisa Mahmoud spoke about recovery and resolve. Families, such as Jacques Fortin and Marie-Claude Veilleux, expressed relief that society is protected.
Vigils along des Remparts Street and in Old Quebec offered a space to mourn and honour the victims. Quebec City chose remembrance over fear.
The response included steady policing, open dialogue, and neighbourly care. This shows how a community can heal after violence. By naming the loss, recognizing survivors’ courage, and understanding the facts, Canada affirms its commitment to safety, dignity, and truth.