Canada Watchdog Investigates Quebec Police Killing Of 15-Year-Old Afghan Boy

Quebec's police watchdog, the Bureau des enquêtes indépendantes (BEI), has launched a formal investigation into the fatal police shooting of 15-year-old Nooran Rezayi in Longueuil. The teenager was shot on Sunday afternoon following a police intervention near Joseph-Daigneault and Monaco streets, and later died in hospital despite emergency treatment.

BEI director Brigitte Bishop held a rare news conference on Tuesday to outline the facts of the case and emphasize the watchdog's independence. She said the briefing was necessary not only to inform the public but also to appeal for potential witnesses and evidence that could clarify what happened.

Police were dispatched Sunday afternoon following a 911 call about“a group of armed young men” in the Saint-Hubert district of Longueuil, near Joseph-Daignault and Monaco streets. Officers arrived within minutes and confronted several teenagers. Witnesses report that while some fled, the Afghan boy remained in place, raised his hands, and attempted to open his backpack to show he carried nothing dangerous. Friends claim officers then fired two shots, striking him in the chest and stomach. He collapsed on the ground and, despite resuscitation attempts, was later pronounced dead in hospital.

His father, Sharif Rezayi, overcome with grief at the scene, wept:“They killed my baby. We need justice for my son.” He insisted his child had only schoolbooks in his bag and was calm and harmless. Family members say they may pursue legal action, though many fear Quebec's legal protections for police officers could make accountability difficult.

Bishop confirmed that 15 investigators and an analyst have been assigned to the case and have already interviewed 15 witnesses, including civilians, police, and young people in the neighborhood. The Montreal police have been asked to provide technical assistance, including drone imaging of the area, while seven videos are under expert review.

The BEI director stressed that her team's first priority was to meet with Rezayi's family and reassure them that the probe would be impartial and transparent. She reiterated that the watchdog's mission is to determine the truth, independent of police forces.

Bishop also addressed growing frustration in the community, warning residents against conducting their own“private investigations.” She urged anyone with video recordings, photographs, or other evidence to contact the BEI directly, stressing:“You have to trust us. Our mission is to shed light on what happened, and that is what we are going to do.”

The shooting has raised renewed concerns about police accountability in Quebec, particularly when minors are involved in deadly confrontations with officers.

Community leaders and rights advocates say the case underscores the importance of transparency and oversight in police interventions, especially in sensitive incidents involving youth.

As the investigation continues, the BEI's handling of Rezayi's death is expected to shape public trust in law enforcement oversight and influence broader debates on community-police relations across the province.

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