Five people have died following a shooting at a mosque in Quebec City. Approximately 60 people were at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec when shooting began just after 8pm EST. As many as 10 people were injured.
An eye witness told Radio-Canada two armed suspects entered the mosque and yelled “Allahu Akbar” before opening fire. The victims were at prayer. “There were even kids. There was even a three-year-old who was with his father.” Mostly men were at the mosque for evening prayers.
Two suspects have been arrested. French language newspaper La Presse reports police are treating this as a terrorist attack. Ste. Foy is a suburb of Quebec City; the capital of the province of Quebec.
A pig’s head was left on the doorstep of the same mosque in June, 2016 during Ramadan.
Trudeau Condemns Mosque attack
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau released a statement extending his condolences. “We condemn this terrorist attack on Muslims in a centre of worship, and refuge.” He extended his condolences to the victims’ families.
Trudeau ended with a promise of protection. “Canadian law enforcement agencies will protect the rights of all Canadians, and will make every effort to apprehend the perpetrators of this act and all acts of intolerance.”
Update: January 30, 12pm: Shooting Suspects identified
Six people are now confirmed dead in the shooting at the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec. Five of the injured are characterized as being “between life and death.” 14 others were taken to hospital with minor injuries, and 39 survived. Media reports name the suspects as Alexandre Bissionette and Mohamed Belkhadir. Police say one suspect called police at around 8:10pm requesting to speak with investigators. He was arrested at a meeting spot near the Ile D’Orleans bridge.
Vigils are being held in Quebec City, Montreal later today. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is to visit Quebec City this afternoon to express his condolences. He will be accompanied by Interim Conservative Leader Rona Ambrose, and NDP Leader Thomas Mulcair. Islamic Relief Canada has set up a “Launch Good” campaign to help victims, and their families. Their goal is to raise $60,000 CAD
Update: 12:45pm: Quebec police are now saying that Alexandre Bissonnette is considered the only suspect in the incident.
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