A Quebec man accused of facilitating terrorism allegedly trained with sniper rifles at a quarry near Quebec City. RCMP says he prepared for armed land seizure.
Alleged Militia Member Seen with Weapons at Quebec Quarry
Anti-Government Accusations Surface
A man accused of helping form an anti-government militia in Quebec was allegedly using a commercial quarry near Quebec City as a shooting ground, raising serious national security concerns. Raphaël Lagacé, one of four men charged by the RCMP, appears in multiple social media posts posing with high-powered rifles and ammunition in a Saint-Joachim quarry overlooking the St. Lawrence River.
Rifle Training in Commercial Zone
The quarry, owned by Les Entreprises LT Ltée/Béton Lagacé, served as the apparent location for Lagacé’s shooting practice. In photos verified by visual investigations unit, Lagacé lies prone with sniper rifles, ear protection on, and ammunition boxes nearby. Though it remains unclear if he fired during those specific sessions, a 2013 video shows him shooting into a sandpit—though that location has not been confirmed as the same quarry.
RCMP Links to Terror-Related Activity
RCMP allege that Lagacé and three other suspects stockpiled weapons, underwent military-style training, and planned to forcibly seize land near Quebec City. A recent police news release included a photo of men training in what appeared to be a quarry, but officials have not confirmed if it was the same site tied to Lagacé. The suspects were arrested and appeared in court virtually on Tuesday. They remain in custody, with the next court date scheduled for July 14.
Company Connection Under Scrutiny
Les Entreprises LT Ltée/Béton Lagacé has declined to comment on whether Lagacé has any familial or business ties to the quarry’s ownership. A woman answering calls at the company said no questions would be answered. Shareholder Yannick Lagacé also refused to comment. The facility, advertised for its view over the St. Lawrence River, matched distinct terrain features in Lagacé’s social media content.
Social Media Sleuthing Reveals Quarry Location
The investigation into Lagacé’s online presence revealed key clues. Images on his Facebook and Instagram accounts showed LT Ltée trucks and excavation machinery. Satellite images and Google Earth were used to match terrain features—including Mont-Sainte-Anne in the background—confirming the location as one of the company’s active quarries.
Broader Implications for Public Safety
This case raises fresh concerns about how extremist groups in Canada may exploit rural or commercial zones for paramilitary-style activities. While charges are still before the court, the evidence presented underscores the growing challenge facing law enforcement in identifying and intercepting domestic threats before they escalate.