Six dead after Canada mosque shooting

One suspect arrested at the scene and another nearby after Quebec City attack

Six people were killed in a shooting at a Quebec City mosque which Canada’s prime minister called an act of terrorism.

More than 50 people were at the Quebec Islamic Cultural Centre when the shooting erupted on Sunday night.

Five people are in a critical condition and 12 others suffered minor injuries, Quebec University Hospital Centre spokeswoman Genevieve Dupuis said. The dead ranged in age from 35 to 70. One suspect was arrested at the scene and another nearby in d’Orleans, with police saying they did not believe there were other suspects but were investigating.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard both characterised the attack as a terrorist act, which came amid heightened tensions worldwide over US President Donald Trump’s travel ban on several Muslim countries.

“We condemn this terrorist attack on Muslims in a centre of worship and refuge,” Mr Trudeau said in a statement.

“It is heart-wrenching to see such senseless violence.

“Diversity is our strength and religious tolerance is a value that we, as Canadians, hold dear.

“Muslim-Canadians are an important part of our national fabric and these senseless acts have no place in our communities, cities and country.”

French President Francois Hollande condemned the “odious attack” on the mosque and offered support for Canada’s leaders.

Mr Hollande, whose country has suffered a string of Islamic extremist attacks, said in a statement “it was the Quebecois spirit of peace and openness that the terrorists wanted to harm”.

He added that “France stands at the sides of the victims and their families,” and offered solidarity for Mr Couillard and Mr Trudeau.

Canada is generally very welcoming toward immigrants and all religions but the French-speaking province of Quebec has had a long-simmering debate about race and religious accommodation.

Diversity is our strength and religious tolerance is a value that we, as Canadians, hold dear. JUSTIN TRUDEAU

Picture: AP. Armed police at the scene of the attack.