Yesterday evening, a man in a rented van drove down a cycle path in New York, killing eight people and injuring at least 11 others.
The incident, which has been described as the city's worst attack since 9/11, took place just a few streets away from the World Trade Centre memorial
The van drove down the cycle path along the westside highway, in the lower part of Manhattan, and ploughed into a school bus - where a number of childred sustained injuries.
Once the vehicle came to a stop, the man, a Uzbek immigrant named by authorities as Sayfullo Saipov, reportedly jumped out of the van holding two fake guns, shouting “Allahu Akbar.”
NYPD officers then shot the suspect in the stomach, and transferred him to a nearby hospital where he remains in custody.
It has since been confirmed that the man, who officers belive may have been living in New Jersey, was an Uber driver.
This is a very painful day in our city, but New Yorkers will not be changed by an act of terror. pic.twitter.com/pJWVyihFaW
— Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) October 31, 2017
The transportation company say that he passed initial background checks and had been providing driving services for the past six months.
"We are horrified by this senseless act of violence," the company said in a statement.
"Our hearts are with the victims and their families. We have reached out to law enforcement to provide our assistance."
Speaking at a press conference last night, New York Mayor, Bill de Blasio described the event as “a horrible tragedy.”
“Let me be clear that based on the information we have at this moment – this was an act of terror.”
Political leaders across the globe have offered their condolences to all those affected by these horrific events.
My thoughts, condolences and prayers to the victims and families of the New York City terrorist attack. God and your country are with you!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 31, 2017
New York's resilience is stronger than a cowardly act of terror. Thinking of the victims, their families, & the responders who saved lives.
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) November 1, 2017
New York, we love you. Grateful to first responders who saved lives today. Jill and I are keeping you all in our prayers.
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) November 1, 2017
Terrible reports of lives lost in NYC terror attack. My thoughts and solidarity are with those affected, their families & emergency services
— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) October 31, 2017
I convey my emotion and the solidarity of France for New York City and the US. Our fight for freedom unites us more than ever. #Manhattan
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) October 31, 2017
New Yorkers are known for their strength - and we know they'll stand together once again: https://t.co/LqXvA2XBWX
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 1, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this senseless act of terror.
