Police have named ten individuals as suspects in the vandalism of the Montreal AI institute on September 16, 2026, coinciding with the opening of an international AI summit in the city. Officers arrived at the research facility after reports of broken windows and spray‑paint markings on the building’s exterior. The damage was documented by police, who linked the destruction to the ten identified suspects.
Investigators noted that multiple panes of glass had been shattered, creating a hazardous environment for staff and visitors. In addition, the walls surrounding the institute were covered with graffiti applied in spray paint, prompting concerns about the security of the site during the high‑profile summit. Police statements indicated that the vandalism appeared to be intentional and was recorded as a criminal act.
The identification of the ten suspects follows a coordinated police response that included forensic analysis of the graffiti and review of surveillance footage from the institute and surrounding streets. Authorities confirmed that the evidence gathered tied the individuals to the scene, although no further details about the suspects’ identities or motives were released at the time of reporting.
The incident occurred as Montreal welcomed delegates from around the world for the AI summit, an event expected to showcase advances in artificial intelligence research and foster international collaboration. The timing of the vandalism raised concerns among organizers about the safety of participants and the integrity of the research environment.
Police continue to investigate the case and have advised anyone with additional information to contact authorities. The AI institute remains closed for repairs while security measures are reviewed and enhanced in preparation for the ongoing summit activities.