Toronto Police believe that an incident where a white van plowed into a busy sidewalk was not an accident.
In an update to media Monday night, Chief Mark Saunders explained that a tenth person died from injuries sustained when the van struck multiple people in the Yonge Street and Finch Avenue area.
He says 15 others were wounded, some critically.
Saunders notes that as they’ve been investigating, witnesses have told them the vehicle changed directions, switching between driving on the sidewalk and into oncoming traffic at points in time, which Saunders adds makes it “very clear” that the driver’s actions “definitely looked deliberate.”
The investigation is still in its early stages, and Saunders indicates police haven’t confirmed whether the attack was connected with terrorism.
The van involved in the incident was located soon after and the driver was taken into custody.
Toronto Police announced last night that they arrested 25-year-old Alek Minassian from Richmond Hill.
He’ll appear in court this morning.
Police have opened an online web portal so witnesses can submit photos and videos of the incident.
Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale emphasizes that they don’t believe right now that this is part of a national security concern. (Photo: Screenshot, CPAC.ca)
The correct spelling of the arrested male in the Yonge And Finch incident is Alek Minassian, 25 of Richmond Hill. ^sm
— Toronto Police (@TorontoPolice) April 24, 2018
Tonight, the hearts & thoughts of an entire country are with the families and friends of those killed in Toronto today. We also wish all those injured a fast and full recovery. Full statement: https://t.co/TbgMTDXhJB
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 24, 2018
