Posted by:
Nightingale
(
)
Date: February 08, 2023 02:02PM
A city bus driver crashed his bus into a daycare in Laval, Quebec this morning. Witnesses say it looked like a deliberate act. Bystanders grabbed the driver as he exited his vehicle and subdued him until police arrived.
Two children are reported deceased with at least four others injured and rushed to hospital (with reportedly non-life-threatening but significant injuries). The children are estimated to be 4-5 years old.
Neighbours rushed to the scene and helped to rescue some children who were reportedly stuck underneath the vehicle.
There was a large response to the scene from emergency teams. Reporters are saying that police officers at the scene were in tears. That is not a sight you usually see no matter how heartrending a situation may be but with little kids severely affected it's tough to maintain composure.
I have volunteered with several police departments, going out on ride-alongs as they patrol and have always thought their self-control is remarkable. However, this scene was described as of great magnitude and, of course, it's always extra emotional when children are injured.
An administrator from one hospital stated to reporters that the children admitted there have "suffered trauma". He means physical at the moment but says that psychological support will also be provided.
The status at nearby hospitals is labelled "total mobilization", with ORs on standby for the victims. The injuries are described as being "poly-trauma". One child is reportedly in ICU.
Of course I would take note of such a significant event in Canada even though it's across the country from me. But Laval, Quebec is one of the places I lived in during my Quebec "missionary" days as a JW and so it caught my attention. Just the mention of that city instantly brings back a lot of memories.
Of course, the focus is on all those affected by this horrific act, reportedly deliberate. Potential charges, announced quickly, are said to include homicide.
There's enough tragedy in this world that is beyond human control. It's extra-excruciating when devastating acts are done on purpose.
Potential motive is not known but witnesses describe the bus driver as "acting erratically". I guess it's too soon to attribute blame if the guy was suffering from some kind of mental breakdown but in some circumstances it's difficult to extend compassion.
Here's one news source about the event:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/bus-hit-daycare-laval-1.6740987Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 02/08/2023 02:03PM by Nightingale.