Danforth Avenue gunman identified as Toronto resident Faisal Hussain
The Ontario police watchdog agency has released the name of the deceased suspect who went on a shooting rampage last night on Danforth Avenue in Toronto.
The Special Investigations Unit has revealed that he is Faisal Hussain, a 29-year-old Toronto resident.
The SIU is investigating the circumstances around his death.
It came after police located him on Bowden Street, resulting in an exchange of gunfire.
Hussain was later found dead on Danforth Avenue.
His family issued a statement saying their son had "severe mental health challenges, struggling with psychosis and depression his entire life".
"The interventions by professionals were unsuccessful," they said. ""medications and therapy were unable to treat him."
The family said that their "hearts are in pieces for the victims and for our city as we all come to grips with this terrible tragedy".
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Two civilians have died after the suspect fired shots at groups of people in the Greektown area around 10 p.m. on July 22.
Another 12 people sustained injuries.
The National Council of Canadian Muslims has issued a statement condemning the "repulsive attack last night in Toronto".
“We are shocked and angered by this shooting attack in Toronto. This was a horrific act of violence," NCCM executive director Ihsaan Gardee said. "Like all Canadians, we grieve the loss of our fellow community members and our thoughts and prayers are with the survivors, the families and friends of the victims, and all Torontonians during this absolutely heartbreaking time.”
The Muslim group commended the Toronto Police Service for its "swift action" and praised the courage of first responders.
“The NCCM denounces this attack in the strongest possible terms. There can be no justification for such acts of brutal violence," NCCM coordinator Leila Nasr said. "We urge everyone to wait for the police investigation to provide answers about this devastating situation before speculating about motive. Toronto is an incredible city and we know it will meet this tragedy with the same resilience and resolve that has made it what it is today."
