MONTREAL — Montreal police say a 53-year-old man was stabbed by a fellow hospital patient early Tuesday.

They say the victim suffered serious injuries but is expected to survive following the incident, which hospital officials say took place in the emergency room.

Police were called to the downtown Université de Montréal hospital known as the CHUM at about 1:15 a.m.

Const. Véronique Dubuc says a 35-year-old male suspect attacked the other with a sharp object and hospital staff intervened. The victim was injured in the upper body but was quickly stabilized by hospital staff.

Police say the suspect had been taken to hospital Monday evening after being picked up following a call for a person in distress who had possibly started a fire in his apartment. The 35-year-old man was taken to hospital for smoke inhalation but was not arrested.

In a written statement, the CHUM described the case as an “unfortunate and exceptional” event. The hospital said it is going over what happened to ensure all necessary protocols were followed.

“The safety of patients and staff remains our priority,” the hospital said. “Following our analysis, our teams will work together to make the necessary adjustments, if required.”

Police are investigating and don’t yet know the motive for the attack.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 29, 2024.