Montreal police located a one‑year‑old child near the Notre‑Dame homeless encampment on the evening of September 17, 2026, and promptly transferred the infant to the provincial youth protection agency, DPJ. The discovery was made at approximately 7 p.m., prompting officers from the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) to secure the child and contact the appropriate child‑welfare authorities.
The infant was found in close proximity to the encampment that has been the focus of recent municipal safety reviews. After confirming the child's age and condition, police handed the baby over to DPJ officials, who assumed responsibility for the child's immediate care and protection. The handover followed standard protocol for cases involving minors discovered in potentially vulnerable circumstances.
City officials and politicians have been monitoring the situation at homeless encampments throughout the downtown core, citing ongoing concerns about safety and public health. While no further details about the child's background or the circumstances leading to the find have been released, authorities emphasized that the referral to DPJ ensures that the child will receive appropriate support and protection under provincial law.
The incident underscores the broader challenges faced by Montreal as it balances the needs of unhoused populations with the safety of vulnerable individuals, particularly children. Police and municipal leaders have reiterated their commitment to addressing safety issues at encampments while respecting the rights of all residents. The DPJ's involvement signals that the province's child‑protection mechanisms are being activated in response to the case.
No arrests have been reported in connection with the baby’s discovery, and the police investigation remains open to determine the circumstances surrounding the infant's presence near the encampment. Further updates will be provided as the DPJ completes its assessment and any related inquiries progress.