Six counts of murder for Quebec attack suspect

The shooting during evening prayers Sunday left six people dead in an attack that Canada’s Prime Minister called an act of terrorism against Muslims. Nearly 50 people were at the Quebec Islamic Cultural Centre when the shooting erupted. 

In addition to the six who died, five were in critical condition and 12 others suffered minor injuries, University of Quebec hospital centre spokeswoman Genevieve Dupuis said on Monday.

 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard both characterized the attack as a terrorist act. Trudeau said in Parliament the victims were targeted simply because of their religion and spoke directly to the more than 1 million Muslims who live in Canada, saying, “We are with you. Thirty-six million hearts are breaking with yours,” Trudeau said. 

The suspect was arrested in his car on a bridge near d’Orleans, where he called 911 to say he wanted to cooperate with police. Authorities, who initially named two suspects, said the other man taken into custody was a witness to the attack and was released earlier on Monday. They said they did not believe there were other suspects but were investigating. Police did not give a motive for the attack. 

Trump called Trudeau to express condolences to the Canadian people and to offer any assistance that might be needed. The White House pointed to the attack as an example of why Trump’s policies were needed.