Justin Trudeau Has Spoken Out About The 'Senseless Violence' In Nova Scotia
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has issued an official statement about the deadly mass shooting in Nova Scotia. He described the massacre as “senseless violence,” and paid tribute to the RCMP officer who was killed in the line of duty. The shooting has become one of the worst mass killings in Canadian history.
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In a statement on April 19, the Prime Minister reflected on the horrific situation that unfolded over 12 hours in Nova Scotia.
“I was saddened to learn about the senseless violence in Nova Scotia, which claimed the lives of multiple people, including one member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police,” Trudeau stated.
“Every day, law enforcement members put themselves in harm’s way to ensure our safety and well-being. I thank them ... for their unwavering dedication, professionalism, and service, and for always being there for us,” he added.
The Prime Minister went on to call for unity across Canada during this time and urged residents of the province to support one another through what is to come.
“The people of Nova Scotia are strong and resilient, and we will be here to support them as they heal from this tragedy,” the PM concluded.
Trudeau’s comments came just hours after the 51-year-old gunman was apprehended by police in Enfield, Nova Scotia. He had been on a 12-hour shooting rampage, during which he murdered at least 17 people.
I’ve been in contact with Premier @StephenMcNeil, the @CommrRCMPGRC, Minister @BillBlair, and @ZannLenore. I’d like… https://t.co/mLTZLEexMS— Justin Trudeau (@Justin Trudeau) 1587323577.0
One of these people was Constable Heidi Stevenson, a 23-year veteran of the RCMP. She was a mother of two.
Lisa McCully, an elementary school teacher, was also confirmed to be a victim of the attack.
Another RCMP officer was shot and injured during the attack but is expected to survive.
This has now become one of the deadliest mass murders in Canadian history.
During the rampage, the shooter was dressed as a police officer and was driving an RCMP lookalike vehicle. For this reason, police suspect the shooter may have planned his actions.
It has been a devastating day in Nova Scotia. To the families of the victims & to those who are still feeling afrai… https://t.co/Ect2x7iiU2— Stephen McNeil (@Stephen McNeil) 1587323017.0
Speaking about the attack on Sunday, Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil explained, “I never imagined when I went to bed last night that I would wake up to the horrific news that an active shooter was on the loose.
“To the RCMP I want to say thank you for apprehending the suspect and for doing your best to protect the citizens of our province,” he added.
During the massacre, Nova Scotia RCMP tweeted, “You may not see the police but we are here with you."
Additional details about the victims have yet to be confirmed by police.
*This article's cover image is for illustrative purposes only.
