Queen offers condolences over Toronto van attack

The Queen has sent a message of condolence to the people of Canada following the van attack in Toronto that left 10 people dead.

The Queen said she and the Duke of Edinburgh joined all Canadians in expressing their sadness following the “terrible tragedy” on Monday.

She added: “We offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who were lost, as well as our hopes for full recovery to all who were injured and affected by this incident.

“You are all in our thoughts and prayers.”

The 25-year-old suspect in the attack, Alek Minassian, was charged yesterday with first-degree murder in the deaths of 10 pedestrians. Fourteen others were injured.

Toronto police said a “cryptic” Facebook message was posted by the 25-year-old just before the incident. It has been interpreted as implying he was part of an online community angry over their inability to form relationships with women.

Toronto Police Services Detective Sergeant Graham Gibson told a news conference those killed and injured were “predominantly” women, although he declined to discuss a possible motive.

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has dismissed the possibility of terrorism, saying authorities see no national security element in the case.

He told a news conference the incident “hasn’t changed the overall threat level in Canada”, although it occurred as cabinet ministers from the G7 nations were meeting in Toronto.