Montreal man charged in 2021 shooting that killed 15-year-old Meriem Boundaoui

Montreal police have arrested a man they believe "participated actively"in the fatal shootingofMeriem Boundaoui, a 15-year-old girl whose death helped put a spotlight on the issue of gun violence in and around the city.

Salim Touaibi, 26, was arrested Monday morning, according to Comm.Salvatore Serrao, a spokesperson for the Service de Police de la Ville de Montral (SPVM).

"This arrest does not mean that the police investigation is over. We know that the suspect who was apprehended was not alone," Serrao told reporters during a news conferenceMonday afternoon.

He would not confirm if police believe the accused fired the shots that killed the 15-year-old.

Touaibiwas already detained for allegedoffences related to drugs and gun possession when he was arrested for Boundaoui's death, Serrao said.

The accused was formally charged with first-degree murder and four counts of attempted murder during anappearance at the Montreal Courthouse Monday afternoon. Members of Boundaoui's family were also there.

Boundaoui was killed on Feb. 7, 2021 while she sat in the passenger seat of a parked car near the corner of Jean-Talon and Valdombre Streets. It's thought she was not the target of the attack. Boundaouiwas one of several teenagerskilled in Montreal in the last 18 months.

In announcing Monday's arrest, Serrao said the SPVM's number one priority isfighting armed violence. He also issued a warning to thoseresponsible for recent shootings and other acts of violence.

"Criminal investigations are sometimes long and complex, but know that our investigators are determined," he said.

In a tweet, Montreal Mayor Valrie Plante applauded the SPVM for its work.

"Rest assured that we are working hard to keep Montreal safe and prevent crimes like this," Plante tweeted. "And our efforts are bearing fruit."