5 people dead and several others injured after rental van plows into pedestrians in Toronto

A white van has mowed down at least eight pedestrians in Canada. Police have confirmed there are 'multiple casualties' although the number is not yet clear after the van struck up to ten people on Yonge St. near Finch Ave, Toronto, at just before 1.30pm on Monday afternoon. 

The extent of the injuries isn't confirmed, and police are investigating whether the incident was an accident or intentional.

According to reports, the van fled the scene after striking the pedestrians but cops were able to stop the driver a few blocks away and the suspect has since been arrested. 

Footage from the scene appeared to show him pointing something at police before he was ordered to drop, and was arrested. He was taken into custody a few yards from a large white Ryder van which had serious damage to the front of the vehicle. 

Toronto Police are at the scene and have shut down the street as first responders treat some of the injured on the sidewalk, which shows blood stains from the impact.