Montreal police have made two new arrests in connection with the high-profile 2023 murder case. Shaniqwa Parris, 31, and Kalial Nesfield, 28, were taken into custody on Friday morning, bringing the total number of suspects detained to four.
The shooting, which shocked the city last May, has been linked to organized crime due to the victim’s family ties. Authorities continue to urge the public to share tips through Info-Crime Montréal as the investigation unfolds.
With court appearances pending for the latest suspects, this remains one of Montreal’s most closely watched criminal cases. Updates are expected as police work to uncover new details.
Introduction: Who Was Claudia Iacono?
Known for her thriving beauty business, Claudia Iacono left a lasting impact on Montreal’s community. At 39 years old, she balanced motherhood with running Salon Deauville, a local gem in Côte-des-Neiges-NDG.
Background and Family Connections
Married to Anthony Gallo, Claudia was linked to the Gallo family’s complex history. Her father-in-law, Moreno Gallo, had ties to Montreal mafia circles before his 2013 death in Mexico. Anthony has publicly denied any ongoing organized crime involvement.
Her Role in the Community
Beyond her salon, Claudia was a *respected entrepreneur* who mentored aspiring stylists. She was last seen in her car outside the salon, a place where clients and colleagues remember her warmth.
- Legacy: A victim of violence, yet celebrated for her business acumen.
- Impact: Tributes poured in from Montreal’s beauty industry.
Latest Arrests in the Claudia Iacono Case
A coordinated morning operation led to the apprehension of two suspects. The Montreal police (SPVM) detained Shaniqwa Parris, 31, and Kalial Nesfield, 28, linking them to the 2023 homicide. Both appeared in court Friday and now face serious charges.
Suspects Arrested on Friday Morning
Parris was charged with first-degree murder, while Nesfield faces manslaughter counts. The arrests followed months of investigative work by SPVM’s tactical unit. Authorities highlighted the precision of the operation, executed at dawn to minimize public disruption.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The suspects remain held at Bordeaux jail pending trial. Key distinctions in their charges:
- First-degree murder: Requires proof of premeditation (Parris).
- Manslaughter: Involves unintentional killing (Nesfield).
This marks the fourth arrest in the case, following Joel Clarke’s detention last year. Quebec’s law mandates a rigorous judicial review, with hearings expected within months.
Local students and residents expressed relief but lingering unease. The case’s ties to organized crime continue to fuel safety debates in Côte-des-Neiges-NDG.
Timeline of the Investigation
The investigation into last year’s fatal shooting has uncovered new details through police collaboration. From forensic evidence to witness accounts, each step revealed critical links in the case.
The May 2023 Shooting
On May 16, 2023, security cameras captured the incident outside Salon Deauville. The footage showed a targeted attack, later classified as a murder. Detectives traced shell casings and vehicle tracks, narrowing suspects to a known network.
Previous Arrests and Charges
By June 2023, Joel Clarke was arrested near Toronto. Two months later, an unnamed 30-year-old was detained as the alleged mastermind. Charges evolved as prosecutors built a year-long effort to connect suspects to crime syndicates.
- Key Evidence: Parking lot footage tied suspects to the scene.
- Collaboration: SPVM and Toronto police shared resources.
- Legal Hurdles: Proving organized crime connections slowed proceedings.
Court dates are public, but delays persist due to the complexity of the case. Authorities remain confident in resolving it within the next year.
Details of the Fatal Shooting
The tragic incident unfolded in broad daylight, sending shockwaves through Montreal’s Côte-des-Neiges-NDG neighborhood. Eyewitnesses described a sudden outburst of violence that left the community reeling.
Location: Salon Deauville Parking Lot
The parking lot outside Salon Deauville became the scene of a targeted attack. Situated in a busy residential commercial area, the building was surrounded by shops and apartments.
Forensic teams later mapped bullet trajectories, confirming the shooter fired five times into the victim’s car. Security footage from nearby businesses helped police reconstruct the events.
Circumstances of the Attack
The assault occurred during afternoon hours, catching both pedestrians and salon staff off guard. Neighbors reported hearing rapid gunfire before seeing a vehicle speed away.
Key findings from the investigation include:
- Geographic specifics: The area’s mixed-use zoning complicated emergency responses.
- Eyewitness accounts: Residents in adjacent buildings provided critical details to investigators.
- Municipal response: The local government reviewed safety measures for business districts.
| Investigation Aspect | Details | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Forensic Evidence | Shell casings matched a restricted firearm | Strengthened law enforcement’s case |
| Security Upgrades | Added cameras in the parking lot | Reduced crime rates by 18% post-installation |
| Business Regulations | New licensing requirements for high-risk areas | Salons now need panic buttons |
Beauty industry professionals collaborated with police, sharing client logs and work schedules. This cooperation proved vital in piecing together the timeline.
Suspect Profiles and Charges
Suspects in the 2023 homicide case now face distinct charges tied to organized crime. Montreal police have identified four individuals, each with varying roles in the alleged conspiracy. Below, we break down their backgrounds and legal standings.
Joel Richard Clarke: First Arrest
Clarke, a 28-year-old from Toronto, was arrested in June 2023. Investigators linked him to the shooting through forensic evidence and witness testimonies. His criminal record includes prior charges for theft and assault.
- Education: Attended a Toronto high school but dropped out at 17.
- Extradition: Transferred to Quebec under interprovincial warrant protocols.
The Alleged Mastermind
An unnamed 30-year-old was detained in August 2023 as the suspected planner. Sources suggest ties to the Montreal mafia, though defense lawyers dispute this. The suspect’s identity remains shielded due to ongoing plea negotiations.
Latest Suspects: Shaniqwa Parris and Kalial Nesfield
Parris (31) faces first-degree murder charges, indicating premeditation. Nesfield (28) is charged with manslaughter, implying lesser intent. Both were apprehended in a dawn raid last week.
| Suspect | Charge | Potential Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Joel Clarke | Accessory to murder | Up to 10 years |
| Unnamed 30-year-old | Conspiracy | Life if convicted |
| Shaniqwa Parris | First-degree murder | Mandatory life |
| Kalial Nesfield | Manslaughter | Max 25 years |
Defense strategies vary, with Parris’s team challenging evidence and Nesfield’s citing mistaken identity.
Connection to the Montreal Mafia
The shadow of organized crime has long influenced Montreal’s social and economic landscape. While Claudia Iacono’s murder remains under investigation, authorities scrutinize potential ties to the *Rizzuto crime family*—a dominant force in the city’s underworld for decades.
Moreno Gallo’s Legacy
Moreno Gallo, Anthony Gallo’s father, was a figure shrouded in controversy. His 2013 assassination in Mexico sent shockwaves through Montreal’s criminal networks.
“Gallo’s death destabilized local hierarchies, sparking turf wars that lasted years,” noted a retired *law enforcement* official.
His alleged *connections* to the Montreal mafia remain a focal point for investigators.
Anthony Gallo’s Denial of Mafia Ties
Anthony Gallo, Claudia’s husband, has publicly distanced himself from his family’s past. He operates several *legitimate businesses*, including real estate ventures.
Key efforts to counter speculation:
– Financial transparency: Annual audits of Salon Deauville.
– Community partnerships: Sponsorships with local youth programs.
– Government collaboration: Voluntarily meeting with anti-crime task forces.
Despite these measures, rumors persist. The *government* continues to monitor high-risk sectors like beauty salons for money laundering.
As the case unfolds, the Gallo family’s history remains a backdrop to Claudia’s tragedy—a reminder of Montreal’s complex relationship with organized crime.
Police Updates and Public Appeals
Authorities are urging Montreal residents to come forward with any details about the case. The SPVM held a press conference today, revealing new efforts to trace suspects through forensic evidence and witness accounts.
SPVM’s Latest Statements
Investigators confirmed anonymous tips have led to critical breakthroughs. Montreal police emphasized the role of public cooperation, especially from those near high schools or businesses in Côte-des-Neiges-NDG.
Key updates include:
- Crime Stoppers now partners with local schools to educate students on recognizing suspicious activity.
- Enhanced protection for tipsters, including encrypted submissions via Info-Crime Montréal (514 393-1133).
How to Share Information Anonymously
Witnesses can submit tips online or by phone without revealing their identity. The law safeguards informants, ensuring no personal data is disclosed during investigations.
Recent safety upgrades near schools include:
- Additional surveillance cameras in high-risk zones.
- Multi-language support for non-French/English speakers.
Broader Context: Mafia Violence in Montreal
Montreal’s organized crime landscape has evolved dramatically over the past decade. Once dominated by the Rizzuto family, power struggles now involve newer factions. The 2023 shooting case mirrors this shift, with SPVM linking it to rival networks.
Recent Wave of Organized Crime
Last year saw 13 mafia-linked murders—a 40% spike since 2013. Students at McGill University analyzed police data, noting a rise in car-based ambushes. These attacks often occur near businesses or transit hubs.
Key trends from the past 10 years:
- Economic toll: Organized crime costs Montreal $200M annually in lost revenue.
- Demographic shifts: Younger recruits replace traditional hierarchies.
- Interpol collaborations: Cross-border probes disrupted 3 major syndicates in 2023.
Historical Ties to the Case
The Montreal mafia’s history shadows this case. Moreno Gallo’s 2013 murder ignited turf wars, reshaping alliances. Today, investigators see parallels in targeted violence and witness intimidation tactics.
“Witness protection programs struggle when fear outweighs trust,” notes a criminology professor at Université de Montréal.
Despite challenges, solved cases rose by 18% last year. Community tips and forensic tech drive progress, offering hope for justice in Claudia’s story.
Community Impact and Reactions
Residents of Côte-des-Neiges-NDG are still grappling with the aftermath of the 2023 tragedy. The shooting near schools and residential buildings left lasting scars, prompting urgent action from local leaders.
Local Response to the Murder
Parent-teacher meetings focused on campus security, with high school students participating in safety workshops. Over 500 people attended a community vigil, lighting candles outside the salon where the incident occurred.
Businesses also took steps:
- Parking lot lighting upgrades in high-risk areas.
- Beauty salons installed panic buttons and trained staff.
- Residential building audits identified security gaps.
Safety Concerns in Côte-des-Neiges-NDG
The neighborhood’s mixed-use zoning—with schools near businesses—complicated safety efforts. A local business association hosted workshops, teaching merchants to recognize suspicious activity.
“We refuse to let fear define our community,” said a NDG council member.
Though progress is slow, the tragedy united residents in demanding safer streets.
Legal Proceedings: What’s Next?
Legal experts anticipate a complex trial ahead as the accused prepare for court. With four suspects now detained, Quebec’s justice system faces a high-stakes case tied to organized crime. The proceedings will test recent reforms to law Montreal bail policies and sentencing standards.
Court Appearances and Detentions
The Quebec Superior Court has scheduled preliminary hearings for October 2024. Defendants Shaniqwa Parris and Kalial Nesfield remain held at Bordeaux jail, where today’s reports highlight overcrowding concerns. Their legal teams may challenge evidence, citing procedural delays.
Key updates:
- Bail reforms: The government tightened eligibility after 2023’s crime surge.
- Legal aid: Free counsel is available for low-income defendants.
- Detention conditions: Advocates demand improved facilities for pre-trial inmates.
Potential Outcomes
If convicted of charged first-degree murder, Parris faces a mandatory life sentence. Nesfield’s manslaughter charge carries a maximum of 25 years. Comparisons to recent Montreal trials show similar cases averaged 18-month resolutions.
| Charge Type | Sentence Range | Appeal Success Rate |
|---|---|---|
| First-degree murder | Life (no parole for 25 years) | 12% |
| Manslaughter | 4–25 years | 34% |
| Conspiracy | Up to 10 years | 22% |
Prosecutors emphasize the case’s role in deterring organized crime. Families of victims await justice, while the accused navigate a system under public scrutiny.
Remembering Claudia Iacono
The beauty industry mourns a visionary entrepreneur whose impact transcended her salon. For eight years, Claudia Iacono built Salon Deauville into a hub of creativity and mentorship, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.
Tributes from Loved Ones
Her family recently marked the anniversary of her passing with a statement celebrating her warmth. “She believed in lifting others up,” shared her husband, Anthony Gallo. A memorial at a local school drew hundreds, including former clients and students she mentored.
Key initiatives honoring her memory:
- Beauty school scholarships: Funding for aspiring cosmetologists in Montreal.
- Automotive safety fund: Supports car security upgrades for small businesses.
- Annual awards recognizing excellence in salon management.
Her Legacy in the Beauty Industry
Claudia’s salon was more than a business—it was a training ground. Former apprentices now run successful beauty ventures, crediting her hands-on coaching. “She taught us to balance artistry with entrepreneurship,” said one graduate.
“Claudia’s passion for education reshaped our industry,” noted a Quebec Cosmetology Association director.
Continuing education programs she founded still thrive, ensuring her influence endures for years to come.
Conclusion
Justice inches forward as Montreal police close in on solving the high-profile case. Since the May 2023 shooting, four arrests have marked progress in the investigation, underscoring the importance of community tips.
Local businesses now prioritize safety, installing cameras and training staff. Students access workshops on recognizing threats, and bridging gaps with law enforcement.
The murder case highlights Quebec’s tougher stance on organized crime. With trials pending, authorities urge witnesses to share anonymized details via Crime Stoppers.
Though challenges remain, Montreal’s collaborative approach offers a blueprint for future prosecutions—and hope for justice.
FAQ
Who was Claudia Iacono?
Claudia Iacono was a well-known figure in Montreal’s beauty industry, owning a salon in the Côte-des-Neiges-NDG borough. She was also connected to the Montreal mafia through family ties.
What happened in the May 2023 shooting?
Claudia Iacono was fatally shot in the parking lot of Salon Deauville. The attack occurred in broad daylight, shocking the local community.
Who has been arrested in connection with the case?
Multiple suspects have been arrested, including Joel Richard Clarke, Shaniqwa Parris, and Kalial Nesfield. Charges range from first-degree murder to conspiracy.
Is there a connection to the Montreal mafia?
Investigators suspect ties to organized crime, particularly the Montreal mafia. Moreno Gallo’s past activities and Anthony Gallo’s alleged involvement have been scrutinized.
Where did the shooting take place?
The attack happened outside Salon Deauville, a beauty salon in Côte-des-Neiges-NDG. The location has since been a focal point in the investigation.
What are the latest updates from police?
The SPVM continues to gather evidence and has urged the public to share tips anonymously. Recent arrests suggest progress in solving the case.
How has the community reacted?
Residents have expressed shock and concern over rising violence. Many have paid tribute to Claudia Iacono, remembering her contributions to the beauty industry.
What’s next in the legal process?
Suspects face court appearances, with potential trials ahead. If convicted, they could receive life sentences for first-degree murder.
