Toronto to virtually commemorate second anniversary of North York van attack tragedy
It’s been almost two years since the Yonge Street van attack that left 10 dead and 16 injured, and the City of Toronto will be commemorating the second anniversary virtually this week.
The tragedy struck on April 23, 2018.
In remembrance of those who lost their lives, survivors, and those impacted by the tragedy, the City will live stream a statement by Mayor John Tory at 9 am on Thursday, April 23. Later in the evening, there will be a virtual vigil led by community groups We Love Willowdale and Willowdale Interfaith Coalition.
All of this year’s commemoration will take place online due to the COVID-19 pandemic and consideration for public health and safety.
“My thoughts are still with the families and loved ones of the ten people who were killed and 16 injured in the senseless attack that took place on Yonge Street in North York,” said Mayor John Tory in a statement.
“Through this trauma, we witnessed Toronto’s strength and resilience in providing compassion and support for all those who have been impacted. As Toronto now faces another crisis with COVID-19, I know how difficult this day may be for those still experiencing trauma. And while we must continue to stay apart to stay united in our fight against this virus, I urge everyone to reach out to loved ones, family, and friends to check in on one another and let them know they are not alone during these difficult times.”
To mark the time of the incident, flags at Nathan Phillips Square and Mel Lastman Square at North York Civic Centre will be lowered to half-mast at 1:30 pm for the remainder of the day.
The Toronto Sign will also be dimmed just before sunset.
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We Love Willowdale and Willowdale Interfaith Coalition, two community groups in North York, will lead a virtual vigil at 6 pm on the We Love Willowdale Facebook page.
According to the City, this vigil will bring together the community, provide support for those impacted, and offer a space for people to interact and leave messages.
To help keep the community safe during the COVID-19 crisis, residents are respectfully requested to adhere to public health orders and refrain from gathering to lay flowers or other memorabilia at the incident sites.
“This Thursday, as on every April 23, the Willowdale community will pause to remember the victims of this tragedy,” said Councillor John Filion, Willowdale (Ward 18).
“While this event is a reminder of a senseless act that caused so much pain for so many, it also reminds us that our community is strong and can stand as a symbol of hope as we unite through our healing and continue to offer support for one another.”
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