LONDON, Ont. – Relatives of the Afzaal family, who were tragically killed by Nathaniel Veltman in a vehicle attack, are sharing their heart-wrenching stories at a sentencing hearing in London, Ont. The family members are speaking about their loss, grief, pain and resilience as a result of the devastating attack. Two days have been dedicated to victim impact statements due to the large number of people willing to share how their lives have been forever changed by the events of June 6, 2021.
The Afzaal family was out for an evening walk when Veltman drove his truck into the group, killing four members and orphaning a little boy. Veltman later confessed to police that he had intended to commit a terrorist attack and hoped to inspire others to do the same. The devastating attack claimed the lives of Salman Afzaal, his wife Madiha Salman, their 15-year-old daughter Yumna, and Salman’s 74-year-old mother, Talat Afzaal. The couple’s nine-year-old son was seriously injured but survived.
During the sentencing hearing, family members shared their anguish and expressed disbelief that such a senseless act of violence could be committed against their loved ones. Madiha’s mother, Tabinda Bukhari, described how the attack compounded her grief after losing her husband just six months earlier. She tearfully recounted the pain of seeing four coffins at the funeral, but also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community.
Other family members also addressed the court, sharing the profound impact of losing multiple loved ones at once. The attack has left their children questioning their sense of safety and belonging in Canada, further adding to the family’s devastation. Despite the pain and loss, the family members reiterated their unwavering faith and resilience in the face of such tragedy.
Veltman, who was found guilty last November, may face a life sentence with no chance of parole for at least 25 years. The sentencing proceedings will determine whether the attack constitutes an act of terror and will be a crucial step in seeking justice for the Afzaal family. The hearings are a solemn reminder of the devastating impact of hate-fueled violence and the resilience of those affected by such senseless acts.