Fire crews answered an emergency call on Friday, March 7, 2025, after a family became lost in wooded land near Havelock, Quebec, following their crossing into Canada from the United States. CTV
Police arrested a group of 19 undocumented migrants late Thursday night near Havelock, a small community in Quebec’s Montérégie region. The group, made up of people of Haitian origin aged between one and 60, crossed into Canada from the United States without authorization, according to authorities.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said officers responded after the United States Border Patrol alerted them to the crossing shortly before 6 p.m.
Search in Extreme Winter Conditions
Police located the first group of migrants just before 7 p.m. Officers from the Champlain Integrated Border Enforcement Team, with help from the Valleyfield IBET, found 15 people hiding in a wooded area close to the border.
Search teams continued working until about 10:30 p.m. in harsh winter weather to find the remaining individuals. Snow, cold temperatures, and difficult terrain slowed the operation, police said.
Hospital Care for Frostbite
Several migrants needed medical help after spending hours outdoors in the cold. Police transported eight people to hospital, including six who required treatment for frostbite.
“The two young children were also taken to the hospital as a precaution. Based on available information, their lives are not in danger,” the RCMP said.
Authorities confirmed that all 19 individuals have asked for asylum in Canada.
Police Warn of Serious Dangers
Police stressed that illegal border crossings pose serious risks, especially during winter months.
“Attempting to cross the border illegally is extremely dangerous, both for migrants and for our officers, especially in winter,” the RCMP said. “People who cross illegally are often poorly equipped and inadequately dressed for the weather. The terrain is also very difficult to access in certain areas.”
Officers noted that cold exposure, injuries, and getting lost remain common dangers during such crossings.
Arrest Linked to Suspected Pickup Plan
During the operation, police also arrested a man nearby under Section 117 of the Customs Act. Officers said they believed he planned to collect several migrants using his vehicle after they crossed the border.
Police seized the vehicle as part of the investigation. Authorities continue to examine whether others may have assisted with the crossing.
Ongoing Investigation
The RCMP said it continues to work with Canadian and U.S. partners as the investigation moves forward. Officials have not released further details about the identities of those involved or the next steps in the case.
Police again urged people seeking safety or a new life in Canada to use legal and safe pathways rather than risking dangerous crossings in remote areas.
