Toronto’s 11th homicide of 2020 is being considered a terrorist act by crown prosecutors according to the Toronto Sun.
30-year-old Saad Akhtar brutally bludgeoned to death a 64-year-old woman on the streets for apparent “terrorist reasons.”
Hang-Kam Annie Chiu was attacked by Akhtar on Sheppard Ave. E. and Markham Rd while she was walking alone.
A note found underneath Chiu’s body prompted investigators to consider the murder as being committed for alleged “terrorist reasons.”
The victim and the suspect had no prior relations and the attack was completely unprovoked.
After beating Chiu to death with a hammer, the accused turned himself in at a local police division.
The police station was evacuated after Akhtar notified the police that he was carrying an explosive device.
Akhtar is being charged by the crown with first-degree murder including terrorist activity. He appeared in court on Tuesday morning to address the charges.
His charges were upgraded to include the terror-related charge after an investigation involving the Toronto Police and the RCMP.
“Today’s announcement is a result of the good work that is done when the dedication of our members, the assistance of the public, and the involvement of our intelligence partners comes together to investigate an incident of national security,” said Supt. Christopher deGale.
“We will continue to support the Toronto Police Service as we remain focused on the safety and security of Canadians.”
Police believe the incident was isolated and there is no ongoing threat to the safety of Canadians.
