Toronto van attack pictures: Devastating images of pedestrian horror as death toll rises
A ROGUE van ploughed into a crowd of unsuspecting people in Toronto, Canada, killing nine and injuring 16 people. Here are the latest pictures from the tragic incident after the city went on lockdown.
A speeding van mounted the curb around 1.27pm local time yesterday (6.27pm BST), in what is being treated as a deliberate act of chaos.
The otherwise quiet downtown area of Toronto at an intersection of Yonge Street and Finch Avenue East was turned into a nightmarish scene of emergency services treating wounded pedestrians.
Toronto police have launched a massive operation with all “available police resources” deployed to comb the area.
The suspected perpetrator is currently in custody but police are so far clueless about a potential motive.
Local witnesses who saw the carnage first hand reported “flying bodies” as the van ploughed through the crowds.
One witness, Ali, said the van was targeting people one by one as it sped down the pavement.
Toronto Police said: “Police were called to Yonge Street and Finch Avenue East, for a collision.
“A Media Sgt from traffic services is on their way to the scene.
“Too early to confirm the number of pedestrians struck or their injuries. More to come.”
Police were called to Yonge Street and Finch Avenue East, for a collision
The surrounding areas are now on complete lockdown authorities have confirmed.
Heartbreaking photos captured at the scene reveal the true extent to of the damage caused.
Armed police officers were photographed patrolling the streets among body bags strewn across the avenue.
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Elsewhere witnesses were huddling in groups, wiping away tears or taking to authorities.
The white van used in the attack was photographed on the side of the street with its front severely damaged.
The vehicle is understood to be a rental van from the company Ryder.
A spokesman for the company said Ryder is cooperating with the authorities on the incident.
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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has offered his condolences and prayers in the aftermath of the horror.
Mr Trudeau said: “Our thoughts are with all those affected by the terrible incident at Yonge and Finch in Toronto.
“Thank you to the first responders working at the scene – we're monitoring the situation closely.”
Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne joined with a heartfelt message of her own, saying: “Hearing a number of people have been hurt at Yonge and Finch.
“My thoughts are with everyone affected. We’re following the situation closely — working with our federal and municipal partners.
“Thank you to the first responders caring for victims and witnesses.”
Seven people are understood to have been taken to Sunnybrook Hospital where the emergency department was put on lockdown.
Toronto police have appealed for witnesses to come forward with information about the attack.