Based on coverage from CBC, CTV, and CityNews Montreal.
A daylight shooting at a bustling Starbucks in Laval, Quebec, has left one man dead and two others seriously injured. The incident, which unfolded in a busy strip mall, has the hallmarks of a targeted hit, according to authorities. The victim, Charalambos Theologou—known in certain circles as Bobby the Greek—was a figure with deep ties to organized crime, specifically the Chomedey Greeks gang.
The shooting took place around 10:30 a.m. at the corner of the Highway 440 service road and 100th Avenue, an area teeming with shoppers and diners. Theologou, who was reportedly overseeing an extortion ring in Laval, was no stranger to the law. His criminal record includes convictions for conspiracy, weapons charges, and drug trafficking. He had previously served time for conspiracy and aggravated assault in 2007, followed by a stint for drug trafficking in 2010.
Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière addressed the media, confirming that the shooting appeared to be a calculated act linked to organized crime. He reassured the public that no "innocent victims" were harmed, a small comfort in a community rattled by the brazen nature of the attack.
The scene quickly became a hub of police activity, with officers establishing a large perimeter around the area, which houses not just the Starbucks but also a medical eye clinic and several other businesses. Laval Police, led by Laurent Arsenault, responded to multiple 911 calls reporting the shooting. However, details about potential suspects remain scarce, and the investigation is ongoing. The Sûreté du Québec is expected to take over the case, given its likely ties to organized crime.
Local MNA Christopher Skeete, who represents a Laval riding, expressed his concern on social media, noting that the Starbucks was a place he frequented. He urged residents to steer clear of the area as authorities continue their work.
This incident underscores the persistent shadow of organized crime in Quebec, a province that has seen its share of high-profile criminal activities over the years. Theologou's death, while a blow to his gang, is unlikely to mark the end of the Chomedey Greeks' operations. Instead, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battles waged in the underworld, often spilling over into public spaces.
For now, Laval residents are left grappling with the unsettling reality of violence intruding into their everyday lives. As the investigation unfolds, the community watches closely, hoping for answers and, perhaps, a return to normalcy.
