Morning Coffee – By Aaron Hall

Weather forecast for Tuesday, April 24, 2018

Today – Cloudy with 60 percent chance of showers. Wind becoming southeast 20 km/h gusting to 40 late this morning. High 16 except 10 near Lake Erie. UV index 4 or moderate.

Tonight – Periods of rain. Fog patches developing after midnight. Wind east 20 km/h becoming light this evening. Low 9.

10 dead after van hits pedestrians in Toronto

A 9-1-1 call came into police at 1:26 p.m. on April 23 for a personal injury collision near Yonge St. and Finch Ave.

Toronto Police officials allege it was reported later that the southbound rental cargo van had mounted the curb along Yonge St. and struck pedestrians.

The driver was stopped and arrested at 1:52 p.m.

A 25-year-old man from Richomond Hill was taken into police custody.

“The actions definitely look deliberate,” said Chief Mark Saunders in a media release.

Chief Saunders said the investigation is in its infancy and nothing has been ruled out.

“We’re working collaboratively not just on a local level but on a federal and provincial level,” he said, of working alongside law enforcement such as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Ontario Provincial Police as well as different levels of government who have lent support. “We’re looking strongly at the exact motive.”

Chief Saunders was joined by Mayor John Tory, Premier Kathleen Wynne and Minister of Public Safety Ralph Goodale at the news conference.

Additional officers have been deployed across the city, with officers staying late and others coming in to work early to ensure the city is protected and that high priority calls get a police response.

Police continue to make threat assessments to make sure the public is safe.

Chief Saunders said his thoughts are also with the families and friends of those killed and injured, noting no police response can diminish the tragedy.

Victims are still being identified.

However, anyone missing a friend or family member can call Toronto Police at 416-808-8085.

Police are also asking the public to please refrain from calling 9-1-1 unless they are in a life-or-death emergency.

Anyone who witnessed the event and is in need of support, can reach out to Victim Services Toronto at 416-808-7066.

Chief Saunders commended the work of the first-responders, including police officers, paramedics and firefighters who rushed to the call for help.

He commended the officer who made the arrest of the suspect.

“It’s directly related to the high calibre of training that takes place,” he said, of the fact the arresting officer used as little force as possible.

Witnesses Sought to Yonge-Finch Investigation

Investigators want to hear from anyone who witnessed a man who is alleged to have intentionally driven into pedestrians, killing ten and leaving 15 others in hospital.

“We’re still looking for more witnesses,” said Chief Mark Saunders, encouraging anyone with information to call the investigation hotline 416-808-8750.

Chief Mark Saunders said any glimpse into the incident will help police in their investigation.

“You may have a piece of the puzzle,” he said.

Anyone with photos or video of the incident can upload them via torontopolice.on.ca/yongefinch

Statement by the Prime Minister on fatal van attack in Toronto

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, last night issued the following statement on the fatal van attack in Toronto:

“It was with great sadness that I heard about the tragic and senseless attack that took place in Toronto this afternoon. On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of those who were killed, and my thoughts for a fast and full recovery to those injured.

“I thank the first responders at the scene who managed this extremely difficult situation with courage and professionalism. They faced danger without hesitation, and their efforts no doubt saved lives and prevented further injuries.

“We should all feel safe walking in our cities and communities. We are monitoring this situation closely, and will continue working with our law enforcement partners around the country to ensure the safety and security of all Canadians.”