Quebec reports 13 femicides in 2026 amid resource shortages

Quebec has recorded 13 suspected femicides since the beginning of 2026, a figure that already approaches the total of 16 recorded for the entire year of 2025. Recent incidents include the deaths of Leakkhena Seng, 44, and Kerline Jean, 41, both of whom were killed in Montreal in mid-August.

Other victims identified this year include women such as Sushmita Bhaskaran, Shannon Jean Hickey, and Katerine Alejandra Mejia Salinas, with cases spanning various regions including Gatineau, Lévis, and Saint-Jérôme.

Critics point to systemic failures in addressing gender-based violence, noting that Quebec shelters are reportedly turning away nearly half of the women seeking help due to a lack of space. Despite previous government promises to increase shelter capacity, resources for victims remain insufficient to meet the current demand.