Six people report feeling ‘sharp prick’ in back of body at Montreal festival: police

By Canadian Press on August 15, 2025.

MONTREAL — Montreal police have opened a criminal investigation into reports that people at a music festival last weekend were allegedly poisoned without their knowledge.

Police say six people have reported feeling a “sharp prick” in the back of their body while they were in the crowd at the îLESONIQ music festival at Parc Jean-Drapeau.

They say that afterward some of the victims reported feeling dizzy.

Police say it’s premature to release more information or confirm if the incidents are linked.

In a news release, Montreal police said the alleged cases of poisoning are an opportunity to remind people to stay vigilant during large gatherings.

Montreal police say they are working closely with security teams from the festival, which was held Aug. 9-10, and promoter Evenko.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 15, 2025.

The Canadian Press