Preparations for an illegal party inside a Côte-des-Neiges parking garage were averted thanks to a good samaritan who alerted police.
Officers were shocked by what they discovered on location, after receiving the tip on Wednesday.
They believe everything was in place to host a possible wedding ceremony.
A person who works not far from the garage near the corner of Décarie and Queen Mary provided Global News with photos of the setup. They did not want to be named.
The photos show tables, chairs, cutlery, and other decorative items in the garage. Bottled water, food and a cloak room can also be seen.
Police confirm they believe a large gathering was in the works — far from the public’s eye.
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“On the scene, several elements lead officers to believe a festive event was in preparation and possibly a large number of people were attending this event. This type of gathering is completely prohibited by current health and safety measures,” said SPVM spokesperson Julien Lévesque.
An investigation is underway and the party supplies have been removed.
Police have sent a report about the event to crown prosecutors, and hefty fines could be on the way to organizers.
Côte-des-Neiges-NDG borough mayor Sue Montgomery told Global News she was disappointed to hear the news.
“I’m very concerned about this and upset, frankly,” Montgomery said. “We’re all doing our part to keep the virus under control.”
It’s a serious virus. It spreads easily, especially at events like this. So whoever was holding this party needs to recognize you are not only … putting your guests in danger, you’re putting your entire community at risk.”
Quebec recently announced it will be extending restrictions in the province’s coronavirus red zones until Nov. 23.
In designated red zones, gyms, bars and entertainment venues are closed, while restaurants are allowed to provide takeout or delivery. Most indoor and outdoor gatherings outside work settings are also banned.
Red zone restrictions prohibit indoor gatherings, whether in public or private spaces, with the exception of religious and funeral services, which can have a maximum of 25 people present. For funeral services, the organizer must keep a register of people present.
— With files from Global News’ Dan Spector
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