Canadian Muslim family killing sparks outrage as Toronto Sign dimmed in solidarity with the Muslim community
TORONTO: Toronto dimmed its Toronto Sign and the Prime Minister expressed outrage on Monday as four members of a Muslim family were `intentionally’ killed by a pick-up driver in the city of London in Ontario.
Two women, one man and a teenager were killed when they were out for a walk when the pick-up truck hit them. A nine-year-old boy is in hospital with serious injuries. (Details here)
The family had immigrated to Canada from Pakistan 14 years ago.
Police said the killings were premeditated as the 20-year-old driver – identified as Nathaniel Veltman – was wearing a vest that looked like body armour. He could face terrorism charges even though he has already been charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one attempted murder.
“We believe this was an intentional act. The victims were targeted because of their Islamic faith,” said the city police chief.
The city mayor said,” “This was an act of mass murder, perpetrated against Muslims — against Londoners — and rooted in unspeakable hatred.”
Express his shock at the killings, Prime Minister Trudeau said, “I’m horrified by the news from London, Ontario. To the loved ones of those who were terrorized by yesterday’s act of hatred, we are here for you. We are also here for the child who remains in hospital – our hearts go out to you, and you will be in our thoughts as you recover.”
Sympathizing with the Muslim community of Canada, the Prime Minister said, “We stand with you. Islamophobia has no place in any of our communities. This hate is insidious and despicable – and it must stop.”
Ontario Premier Doug Ford said, “Hate and Islamophobia have NO place in Ontario. Justice must be served for the horrific act of hatred that took place in London, Ontario.”
Toronto Mayor John Tory announced to dim the Toronto Sign on Monday night “to mourn the London family – three generations of one family – targeted and murdered because of their Islamic faith and to stand in solidarity with our Muslim community.”
The mayor said the city stands “with the Muslim community in London and here in Toronto in the face of this tragedy. And we absolutely reject the hatred and Islamophobia that led to this deadly violence.”
READ ALSO: National Council of Canadian Muslims calls it “a terrorist attack”
