The motive behind the stabbing attack on Saturday in North Vancouver remains unknown at this time, Insp. Michelle Tansey from the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team said Monday.
Yannick Bandaogo, 28, has been charged with second-degree murder and remains in police custody, IHIT confirmed.
Bandaogo has links to Quebec and has a criminal record with a history of violence in that province, Tansey said.
She added he has outstanding warrants in Quebec and Winnipeg but it is still unclear why and when he came to B.C.
“At this time there’s no link as to how Mr. Bandaogo came to North Vancouver or any ties to the community,” Tansey said.
They have determined, however, Bandaogo did not know any of his victims and the attacks were random.
Bandaogo made his first court appearance Monday morning and will next appear in court on April 1.
Tansey said there were five female victims and one male victim, ranging from 22 years old to 78 years old. She said they are not identifying the person who died.
Two of the victims have been identified — a single mom of three, Susanne Till, and a teacher with the North Vancouver School District, Sheloah Klausen.
Supt. Ghalib Bhayani from the North Vancouver RCMP also spoke Monday to remind everyone that the community remains a safe place.
“The Lynn Valley library is a peaceful place. A place for people to come to learn and explore,” he said.
“I want people to know that your library, your community, North Vancouver, is safe.”
Bhayani acknowledged the work of Good Samaritans in the area, along with the first responders, who “no doubt” saved lives Saturday.
A number of agencies have come together to establish a wellness and resiliency centre to provide further support for the community, he confirmed.
The wellness centre, located at the Karen Magnussen Recreation Centre, will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily for the next seven days and staff will be available to provide support to anyone needing it.
“This past year has tested us but I know our community will continue to stand strong and support one another. That’s just how North Vancouver is,” North Vancouver District Mayor Mike Little said.
The attack took place around 1:45 p.m. Saturday when Bandaogo allegedly began stabbing people in North Vancouver’s Lynn Valley public library.
Court records showed Bandaogo is charged with a single count of second-degree murder, as of Sunday.