City Unveils Memorial Monument during Intimate Ceremony with Family and Friends of Alain Nadeau

The City of Pointe-Claire held an intimate ceremony today, March 6, 2026, to unveil a memorial monument in remembrance of Alain Nadeau, a young boy who tragically lost his life in Terra-Cotta Natural Park, 52 years ago.

Mayor of Pointe-Claire John Belvedere, members of City Council, and former Mayor Morris Trudeau were present for the ceremony to share a few words and take part in a moment of silence with the boy’s mother, Lucile (Girard) Nadeau, and siblings, Ms. Guylaine Nadeau, Mr. Luc Nadeau, and Mr. Pierre Nadeau. We should also note the presence of Mr. Bradley Wilson and Ms. Ranger, who were with Alain Nadeau at the time of the tragedy. The Wilson and Ranger families, along with other neighbours from that time, wanted to show their support for their long-time friend.

"Today, we are not simply unveiling a monument, we are giving Alain's memory a permanent home in the heart of our community. To the Nadeau family, who have carried this loss for 52 years, we hope this place brings not only remembrance, but comfort. Pointe-Claire does not forget its own." said Mayor John Belvedere.

The commemorative monument has been installed at the entrance to Terra-Cotta Natural Park on Glanlynn Avenue, nearby the scene of the incident. It will serve as a lasting opportunity for commemoration, reflection, and community awareness as well as a place for remembrance.

In 2024, the year of the 50th anniversary of this tragic event, the installation of a commemorative sign in Terra-Cotta Natural Park brought this sad moment from the past back into the community’s collective memory. Since then, the City of Pointe-Claire and the Nadeau family have been in communication to determine the most appropriate way to honour the memory of young Alain Nadeau.

Alain Nadeau and his Story

On March 6, 1974, six-year-old Alain Nadeau was playing with some friends in Terra-Cotta Natural Park, just minutes away from his family home. 

While exploring the area, the young boy would accidentally venture too close to the edge of the park’s creek that leads to the main storm sewer pipe and would fall into the water. 

When the snow melts in the spring, the area becomes flooded and creates a fast-flowing stream at the entrance of the Glanlynn pipe. Alain was unfortunately swept away by the strong current and tragically passed away.

This devastating incident has left a lasting impact on his family, friends and the residents of the neighbourhood. His memory lives on through all those who knew him. 

Following this tragedy, a protective fence was installed around the waterway to prevent similar incidents from happening again.