Polytechnique 2011

Preparation for the Attack

A young man meticulously prepares his rifle and writes a heartfelt message to his mother. This moment marks the beginning of a tragic and horrific event that is about to unfold.

Entering the Classroom

The assailant enters a classroom at Polytechnique Montreal with his weapon drawn, disrupting the ongoing lesson. His entrance initiates a chilling silence, as students realize the severity of the situation.

Targeting the Men

The young man demands the men in the classroom to vacate while instructing the women to remain. This act showcases his intention to target only female students, igniting fear among those present.

Demonstrating Intent

To demonstrate the seriousness of his intentions, he fires a shot into the ceiling. This decisive action solidifies his control over the room and heightens the terror felt by the frightened students.

Opening Fire

Despite the terrified protests from the women asserting they are not feminists, the shooter opens fire. This brutal act of violence leaves some students dead and others gravely wounded, escalating the horror.

The Rampage Begins

The chaos escalates as the assailant roams through the hallways and cafeteria. He specifically targets women, reflecting the premeditated nature of his attack and spreading fear across the campus.

Jean-François Takes a Stand

Jean-François, ordered to exit the classroom, bravely decides to confront the shooter and assist the injured. His act of defiance demonstrates courage in the face of danger, as he tries to rescue his classmates.

Survival Instincts

Valérie and Stéphanie manage to survive the initial attack by playing dead. They hope this strategy will help them escape the killer's notice during the chaotic moments of terror.

Tragic Loss

Despite their efforts to remain unnoticed, Stéphanie later succumbs to her injuries. This amplifies the tragedy of the day and leaves a profound impact on the survivors.

Execution of a Lecturer

During the rampage, the shooter finds another classroom and ruthlessly murders a female lecturer. This act underscores the terror and indiscriminate nature of his violence against women.

Shooter's Despair

In a moment of despair, the assailant turns the weapon on himself, taking his own life. This tragic conclusion results in a gruesome mingling of his blood with that of his victims, marking the end of the attack.

Aftermath and Guilt

In the aftermath of the massacre, Jean-François is plagued by guilt for leaving the women behind. Unable to cope with his feelings, he tragically ends his own life through carbon monoxide poisoning.

Valérie's Resilience

Valérie, now wearing the Iron Ring, symbolizing her status as a Canadian engineer, discovers she is pregnant. This news brings both hope and determination as she resolves to teach her child about love and kindness.