The Canadian city of Laval, the third most populous in the province of Quebec and located on the outskirts of Montreal, was the scene this Wednesday morning of a tragedy that shook the country. A Compagnie de transport de Laval bus hit a kindergarten around 8:30 a.m. local time. The incident left two miners dead and six injured. The driver of the vehicle was arrested a few minutes later. “We believe he acted deliberately, although we do not know the reason,” said Pierre Brochet, police director of this city of Quebec, during a press conference.

The nursery kitchen and living room were completely destroyed by the impact. According to the local press, several neighbors and parents who were about to leave their children at the children’s center overpowered the driver; they also helped rescuers pull out children trapped under the vehicle. Some testimonies claim that the driver undressed after the impact of the bus.

A minor was pronounced dead at the scene and seven others were taken to nearby hospitals. However, one of them died a few hours later. An adult was also taken to a health center for treatment for a nervous breakdown. The area of ​​the drama was cordoned off by the police, but it became the scene of long moments of panic and anxiety on the part of some parents who inquired about their children. The crèche accommodates approximately 80 children.

The police confirmed that the detainee is Pierre Ny St-Amand, 51 years old. He had worked as a driver for the Compagnie de transport de Laval for a decade and has no criminal record. He was charged with multiple crimes, including first degree murder, attempted murder and aggravated assault. Pierre Ny St-Amand appeared this afternoon at the Laval courthouse. His next hearing is scheduled for February 17.

Justin Trudeau, Canadian Prime Minister, tweeted: “My heart goes out to the people of Laval today. Nothing can take away the pain and fear felt by parents, children and workers, but we are here to help. My thoughts are with those affected by this incomprehensible and tragic incident.” Canadian parliamentarians observed a minute of silence during Wednesday’s session in Ottawa as a sign of mourning. For his part, François Legault, Premier of Quebec, said said: “As a father, I am shocked. Legault will travel to Laval this Thursday to meet those affected by the tragedy.

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