Montreal police had been searching for 39-year-old Pierry Philogène, one of five suspects connected to Project Alliance, an investigation into several murders tied to organized crime. CTV
Police have captured one of Canada’s most wanted fugitives in British Columbia. Pierry Philogène, 39, was taken into custody Tuesday evening in Surrey, ending a nationwide search that began nearly three years ago.
Montreal police confirmed that Philogène is wanted for first-degree murder in connection with the December 22, 2021, killing of Charles-Olivier Boucher Savard in Montreal.
Authorities said Metro Vancouver Transit Police made the arrest after receiving a public tip. Officers chased Philogène briefly before detaining him with help from Vancouver police. During a search, investigators found fraudulent identification documents in his possession.
Transit Police charged him with obstruction of a peace officer and possession of identity documents without lawful excuse. He now faces extradition to Montreal, where he will appear in court on the murder charge.
Part of Canada’s Most Wanted List
Philogène’s name appeared on Canada’s Top 25 Most Wanted list, part of the BOLO program, a federal initiative that highlights dangerous fugitives across the country. He was one of six people from Quebec featured on that list.
The BOLO program works with law enforcement agencies nationwide to raise public awareness and encourage citizens to provide information leading to arrests.
Linked to Major Organized Crime Investigation
Philogène’s case is also tied to Project Alliance, a massive joint investigation between Montreal police and the Sûreté du Québec. The project aims to solve several murders connected to organized crime networks in Montreal and other parts of Quebec.
Bryan Fuentes Gramajo, All Boivin, Dylan Denis, Pierry Philogène, and Tommy Bernier-Thibault are each facing Canada-wide arrest warrants. CTV
Police launched Project Alliance to crack down on gang-related violence and long-standing criminal disputes. On June 12, officers arrested 11 suspects, including two major underworld figures — Leonardo Rizzuto, 56, believed to be the head of the Montreal Mafia, and Stefano Sollecito, 57, one of his close associates.
Philogène was one of five remaining suspects who had evaded arrest during that operation. His capture marks a significant step forward in dismantling organized crime activities in Quebec.
Four Suspects Still at Large
Despite Philogène’s arrest, four men involved in Project Alliance remain wanted by police:
- Sacha Krolik, 57
- Mario Sollecito, 54
- Gianpietro Tiberio, 52
- Jean-Ismel Zéphir, 49
Investigators urge anyone with information about their whereabouts to reach out to Info-Crime Montreal at 514-393-1133 or the Criminal Information Centre at 1-800-659-4264. All tips can remain anonymous.
A Major Break in the Case
Philogène’s arrest represents a major breakthrough for investigators. His capture not only brings closure to a lengthy manhunt but also strengthens ongoing efforts to curb organized crime in Montreal.
Authorities plan to transfer Philogène to Montreal in the coming days. Once there, he will face court proceedings related to the 2021 murder case.
