On August 8, 2025, a 32-year-old Jewish man was violently assaulted in broad daylight at Dickie Moore Park in Montreal's Parc-Extension neighborhood while accompanied by his three children. The attack, which included the assailant repeatedly punching the victim and throwing his kippah into a fountain, was captured on video and widely circulated on social media. The suspect, 23-year-old Sergio Yanes Preciado, was arrested by Montreal police and charged with one count of assault causing bodily harm. Following a bail hearing, Preciado remained in custody. The victim's brother-in-law has publicly described the incident as a hate crime, calling for political leaders to address rising antisemitism. The assault drew condemnation from Canadian leaders and Israeli officials, with some criticism directed at the judicial response, including a judge's reference to the hot weather as a potential factor in the attack. The case has highlighted concerns about escalating antisemitism and anti-Israel protests in Quebec.
After a Jewish man was beaten in front of his child in Montreal last week, the judge and the “expert” criminologist blamed the “hot weather” for the attacker’s actions. This would never happen if another minority group were the victims. https://t.co/xP3p7s7Zi7
Jewish father targeted in Montreal attack, brother-in-law speaks out A Jewish man was targeted in a brazen daylight assault last week at a Montreal park while with his children. FULL REPORT by @ThevoiceAlexa: https://t.co/sAbRQaNaZN https://t.co/pL7ssgQixd
Name of Montreal attacker on Jewish dad released, but no motive, Israeli leaders respond - https://t.co/14UHNuFaTv https://t.co/kW38Tq7CMl