London police say Islamophobia was the motivation for what's believed to be the largest mass killing in the city's history.
Four members of one family, aged 74, 46, 44, and 15 were killed on Sunday evening as they walked along Hyde Park Road near South Carriage Road.
A fifth family member, a 9-year-old boy, is in hospital with serious injuries that aren't considered life threatening. Police will not be releasing the names of the deceased at this time, at the request of the family.
"Based on information collected during the course of the investigation, we believe this was an intentional act, and the victims of this horrific incident were targeted," said London Police Chief Steve Williams. "We believe the victims were targeted because of their Islamic faith."
Nathaniel Veltman, 20, faces four counts of first degree murder and one count of attempted murder. Other charges are pending, including potential terror charges. Discussions with the RCMP are ongoing, according to investigators.
Police say the family was waiting at the light to cross Hyde Park Road when they were struck by the vehicle that Veltman is accused to have been driving. The truck travelled southbound on Hyde Park Road, ran a red light, and went east on Oxford Street.
The suspect stopped at Cherryhill Mall, about seven kilometers from the scene. Police soon after arrested the driver.
"Our hearts are broken, I grieve for the family, three generations," said London Mayor Ed Holder. "I pray for the recovery of the child."
Flags outside of London City Hall will be lowered for the next three days.
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"I want each of you to know, that ours is a safe community, you should feel safe in London," Holder said when addressing the Muslim community. "This is as much your home as it is mine."
The Mayor and Ward Seven councillor Josh Morgan met with Muslim community leadership on Monday morning.
"This act of unspeakable hatred must be followed by acts of compassion, acts of kindness, acts of humanity," Holder added. "The love we hold for our Muslim brothers and sisters in London is unwavering and unconditional."
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau later issued a statement saying he is "horrified" by the news.
"To the loved ones of those who were terrorized by yesterday’s act of hatred, we are here for you," Trudeau said. "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."
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A GoFundMe has been set up by extended family to raise money that will be used as Sadaqah-Jariyah on behalf of the deceased. Sadaqah-Jariyah is an ongoing or perpetual charity and an Islamic concept that continues to benefit people long-term and continues to earn the giver rewards even after death.
"Everyone who knew Salman and the rest of the Afzal family knows the model family they were as Muslims, Canadians, and Pakistanis," a statement from the family read. "They were always there giving and participating in spreading goodness. They worked extremely hard in their fields and excelled. Their children were top students in their school and connected strongly to their spiritual identity."
Police say Veltman had no criminal record. He had previous contact with police but it was "nothing of a very serious nature" according to Detective Superintendant Paul Waight of London Police.
Waight also confirmed the suspect was wearing clothing that was "like body armour" when he was arrested.
Investigators have not found that the suspect was the member of any hate groups - but they continue to search for any such connections.
Anyone with information is asked to call the London Police Service's special time line for this incident at 519-661-5515, ext. 5842 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.