Catholic Diocese Near Montreal Expresses Regret Over Hells Angels Tombstone
The Roman Catholic Diocese of St-Jean-Longueuil, located on Montreal’s South Shore, expressed deep regret after discovering a tombstone in a parish cemetery bearing the emblem of the Hells Angels motorcycle gang.
“The Diocese of St-Jean-Longueuil sincerely regrets the embarrassment caused by this event,”
The statement added that measures will be taken to better inform parishes about cemetery regulations to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Tombstone Controversy
The tombstone, placed in the St-Basile-le-Grand cemetery, displayed the Hells Angels logo and the inscription “Hells Angels South.” Despite the controversy, the gravestone itself will not be removed. However, its logo and wording are set to be erased, according to diocesan spokesperson Michel Boutot.
“It’s too soon to say when that will happen,”
Boutot stated, noting that the details surrounding the monument remain uncertain. There are no names engraved on it, and neither the source of funding nor who approved its installation has been confirmed.
Background on the Hells Angels
Over the decades, the Hells Angels have earned a notorious reputation in Quebec due to their association with violent crime, drug trafficking, and loan sharking. The Canadian Press contacted the local parish for clarification, but members declined to comment.
Author’s Summary
The Catholic Diocese near Montreal condemned the installation of a Hells Angels-marked tombstone and pledged stricter oversight of cemetery regulations following public outrage.