Multiple people killed as van ploughs into crowds in Toronto

SEVERAL people are dead and multiple others injured after an out-of-control van ploughed into crowds of pedestrians in Toronto, Canada.

It’s understood the white vehicle mounted the curb and drove at high speeds along the sidewalk of Yonge Street, striking pedestrians in its path.

Toronto Deputy Police Chief Peter Yuen confirmed at a press conference a short time ago that nine people had been killed and 16 others seriously injured.

The driver of the van, which is believed to have been rented, was arrested at the scene after allegedly threatening officers with a gun.

After multiple pedestrians plowed down on Toronto sidewalk, driver gets out holding what appears to be a gun. Police arrest him. No shots fired. pic.twitter.com/xWHeylS1d8

— Michel Boyer (@BoyerMichel) April 23, 2018

The motive for the incident has not yet been revealed and police have not confirmed whether it’s being treated as an act of terrorism.