Full Breakdown
Montreal Man Charged with First-Degree Murder Following Convenience Store Homicide
3/14/2026, 8:31:24 AM
Overview of the Incident
Xavier Gellatly, a 35-year-old man with a significant criminal history, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of 55-year-old Chong Woo Kim, the owner of Fleur Bleue, a convenience store located on Berri Street in Montreal's Plateau-Mont-Royal borough. Kim was found unresponsive inside his store around 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, prompting a police investigation that led to a manhunt across the city's Metro system. Gellatly was arrested later that day at Complexe Desjardins, a downtown mall, where he was found with a blood-stained bag.
Background on Xavier Gellatly
Gellatly has a long history of violent offenses, including a previous manslaughter conviction for the 2012 stabbing of Chelsea Holden in Vancouver, for which he was sentenced to seven years in prison. His criminal record includes multiple violent incidents, such as assaulting a peace officer and animal cruelty. In 2016, a Parole Board of Canada decision indicated that Gellatly posed a high risk for violent recidivism, noting his propensity for violent outbursts and possession of weapons while incarcerated.
Raised in a challenging environment, Gellatly grew up in a group home and struggled with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which his lawyer argued contributed to his lack of impulse control. Despite a judge expressing hope for his rehabilitation during his previous sentencing, Gellatly's actions have raised concerns about his potential for reoffending.
Details of the Homicide
The police operation following Kim's death involved extensive searches of the Metro system, with officers responding to multiple reports of Gellatly's sightings. Surveillance footage captured him carrying a green Dollarama bag, which was later found to be stained with blood. The dramatic arrest occurred shortly before noon, with Gellatly appearing briefly in court via video link the following day.
Official Statements & Responses
Montreal police have confirmed that Gellatly's arrest followed a thorough investigation and public assistance in locating him. The police emphasized the seriousness of the crime and the need for community safety. Gellatly's next court appearance is scheduled for May 4, where further proceedings will take place regarding the murder charge.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the judicial system's handling of Gellatly's previous offenses, questioning the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts given his history of violence. The Parole Board's assessment of his risk to reoffend has sparked discussions about public safety and the adequacy of measures in place to monitor individuals with violent backgrounds.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Gellatly's criminal history is well-documented, there are discrepancies regarding the details of his previous offenses and the specific circumstances surrounding Kim's death. Some reports emphasize the violent nature of Gellatly's past, while others focus on the ongoing investigation into the current homicide.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When I say the phrase, ‘I took someone’s life,’ I still have a hard time believing it,” — Xavier Gellatly
- “Mr. Gellatly spoke this morning as a man who has a very good chance of rehabilitation and changing his life.… Mr. Gellatly, I have listened carefully this morning and think there is much hope for a better life for you at the end of the period of imprisonment.” — Judge's decision during Gellatly's previous sentencing.
