Suspect in the UW triple stabbing now facing new federal terrorism charges

The suspect in the stabbing at the University of Waterloo is now facing federal terrorism charges.

Geovanny Villalba-Aleman, 24, appeared in court this morning via video and was told by the judge to return next Friday, Sept. 15 at 9:30 a.m. The specifics of the new terrorism charges and his bail were not discussed during the hearing.

Police believe the attack was targeted and hate motivated in relation to gender identity and expression.

Villalba-Aleman is a recent graduate of the university and an international student. He already faces 11 charges including aggravated assault, assault with a weapon and possession of a dangerous weapon for a dangerous purpose. He also faces a charge of mischief under $5,000 in relation to a torn pride flag. On Aug 25, an additional charge of attempted murder was laid by Waterloo Regional Police.

Villalba-Aleman allegedly walked into a gender studies class on June 28 and attacked three people, including a teacher and two students. All the victims sustained serious, but non-life threatening injuries. He has been in custody since the attack.

The university has removed all class locations and teachers names since the incident to protect staff and students.

The RCMP was not available for comment due to a publication ban.