Police assume anti-Muslim motive behind car attack in Canada

Following a car attack that killed four people from a Muslim family in Canada, police say they are assuming it was motivated by hatred.

"Investigators believe that this was an intentional act and that the victims were targeted because of their Islamic faith," a statement from police in London, Ontario, said on Monday.

"There is evidence that this was a planned, premeditated act, motivated by hate."

The incident had occurred on Sunday evening in London, not far from Toronto. In that incident, the 20-year-old driver of a pick-up truck had hit several people and was subsequently arrested.

According to the police, three adults and one teenager died, one child survived the attack.

"The victims were all members of the same family. The deceased include a 74-year-old female, a 46-year-old male, a 44-year-old female, and a 15-year-old female. One 9-year-old male remains in hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries," police said.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a tweet he was "horrified" by the attack.

'Islamophobia'

"To the loved ones of those who were terrorized by yesterday’s act of hatred, we are here for you. 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."

"To the Muslim community in London and to Muslims across the country, know that we stand with you," the prime minister continued in another tweet. "Islamophobia has no place in any of our communities. This hate is insidious and despicable - and it must stop."

The alleged perpetrator was charged with "four counts of first degree murder and one count of attempt murder."

He appeared in a London court on Monday in relation to the charges.