North Vancouver RCMP have charged a 28-year-old man with second-degree murder after yesterday's stabbing spree outside the Lynn Valley library.
Yannick Bandaogo is facing the charge after a woman in her late 20s died in the attack; the investigation into the attack continues. He is in police custody after undergoing surgery for self-inflicted wounds, according to the RCMP.
"His background, history in B.C. and relationship to the victims, if any, is still being determined," states the RCMP in a press release.
The investigation is continuing as is support for the victims.
Six people were wounded in the attack. The remaining victims were transported to hospital for non-life threatening emergency medical care.
"IHIT investigators, supported by the North Vancouver RCMP Investigative Services Team, is managing priority tasks, processing the scene, conducting witness statements and completing an extensive video canvass of the area," state the RCMP.
They add that their top priority right now is the well-being of those affected by the attack.
“We share the community’s grief and outrage,” says Supt. Ghalib Bhayani of the North Vancouver RCMP in the release. “Lynn Valley Library is a peaceful place. A place where our community comes to learn and our children come to explore, and the RCMP is committed to keeping you safe.”
The stabbings deeply shocked the community of North Vancouver. An impromptu memorial has formed outside the library. Expressions of sympathy have poured in from across Canada. Both B.C. Premier John Horgan and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have offered their condolences.
“This is a deeply profound and tragic incident that has shaken all of us,” says Inspector Michelle Tansey, Acting Officer-in-Charge of the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team, in a statement. “I commend our investigators and partners for the remarkable work they have done and continue to do under challenging circumstances. My sincere condolences to yesterday’s victims and their families and to all who have been affected by this crime.”
Police are expected to provide an update on the situation on Monday.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at [email protected]. If you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
– with files from Jane Seyd, North Shore News
