Second anniversary of Yonge Street van attack being commemorated in Toronto

The second anniversary of Toronto’s Yonge Street van attack is being virtually commemorated by the city, reports Global News.

During a press conference on Thursday, Mayor John Tory reflected on the 2018 attack.

“It [coronavirus] has even impacted this ceremony, as we cannot gather in person to support one another on this tragic anniversary. I know that can make it more difficult for some to bear. But that will not stop us from remembering all of the lives that were lost on April 23, 2018,” he said, “It sent a wave of shock through the entire city.”

“The Yonge Street tragedy is a moment in time that will never leave our memory. It is a pain that is especially felt by the families of the 10 innocent people who lost their lives to this tragedy, and the 16 equally innocent people who were injured, some left with injuries that will last for the rest of their lives.”

Residents were “respectfully requested” to continue following public health orders and to avoid gatherings, showing up at Yonge Street sites as well as leaving items like flowers.

At Mel Lastman Square and Nathan Phillips Square flags are set to be lowered to half-mast at 1:30 p.m.

At Nathan Phillips Square the Toronto sign will be dimmed as well.

Beside the Mayor, ten candles were lit for the ten people who lost their lives on the day of the attack.

“They will be placed in my office window later today, facing Nathan Phillips Square as we do our very best in these unusual circumstances to honour their memory and to grieve with their families and with their loved ones,” Tory said.

There were also sixteen flowers placed in a vase beside the candles for the people who were injured in the incident.

“These flowers too, will be placed in my office window later today as we wish the injured continued recovery and good health,” Tory said.

A virtual vigil will be hosted by two groups in the North York community at 6 p.m. The groups are the Willowdale Interfaith Coalition and We Love Willowdale.

“This vigil will bring together the community, provide support for those impacted and offer a space for people to interact and leave messages,” said the city in a statement.

Police reported that a van was rented by Vaughan resident Alek Minassian on April 23 who then proceeded to drive it into the area of Yonge Street and Finch Avenue around lunch hour. Just minutes after the attack Minassian was arrested.

Minassian deliberately drove into pedestrians and referred to it as an act of “retribution.” He added that the act was fuelled by the incel (involuntary celibacy) community.

His trial will start later this year.