Montreal Police Arrest Suspect After Reported Needle Incident at îLESONIQ Music Festival

A suspect has been arrested after an alleged drugging at Montreal’s îLESONIQ music festival in August.

Yesterday (September 10), Montreal police said a 33-year-old man was arrested last month after reports that people at the EDM two-day event were allegedly pricked with needles.

As reported by Canadian Press, spokesperson Véronique Dubuc confirmed that the suspect was arrested in Ottawa on August 15 and was released on a promise to appear in court in April 2026.

Dubuc said the charges could include armed assault and administering a noxious substance.

Last month, police reported that six attendees felt a "sharp prick" in the back while they were in the crowd at the electronic music festival. They said some of the victims then reported feeling dizzy.

In the days preceding, police said it was premature to release more information or confirm if the incidents are linked. Still, they noted that the reports were an opportunity to remind concertgoers to stay vigilant during large gatherings.

Festival promoters Evenko responded to the initial reports in a now-removed statement shared to social media.

“The safety of our attendees is our highest priority, and we take these incidents very seriously,” they wrote. “Our teams are working closely with the police, on-site medical staff, and a dedicated prevention group to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone."

At the time, police shared they were working closely with the security teams and the promoters of the music festival, which was held on August 9 and 10.

îLESONIQ is a sister festival to Osheaga, which took place at Parc Jean-Drapeau the previous weekend. No similar incidents were reported from that festival.