Trudeau calls van attack ‘horrific and senseless’

OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his public safety minister delivered messages of sorrow and solidarity Tuesday in the aftermath of a deadly rental-van rampage in Toronto that killed 10 pedestrians and injured 15 others.

But both Trudeau and Ralph Goodale were careful to note that the attack appears to have no link to terrorism and to steer clear of any rhetoric that might risk fanning the flames of speculation and innuendo.

“The events that took place ... in Toronto were a senseless attack and a horrific tragedy,” Trudeau said, extending the government’s condolences to the victims and their families, and praising the first responders on the scene. “They handled this extremely difficult situation with professionalism and bravery. They faced danger without a moment of hesitation, and there is no doubt that their courage saved lives and prevented further injuries.”

The investigation into the incident is still ongoing, but Goodale — speaking at a news conference in Toronto, where he happens to be for a meeting of his G7 counterparts — said there is nothing to suggest Canada’s national security is under threat.

“The investigation that is underway is still in its very early hours, but thus far there is no discernible connection to national security in the incident last evening, based on all available information at the present time,” he said.