The prime minister paid tribute Monday to the victims of this weekend’s shooting spree in northern Nova Scotia.
During his daily COVID-19 briefing Monday, Justin Trudeau said at least 18 people were killed in what he described as a “senseless” tragedy.
“To the grandparents who lost a child, the children who lost a parent, to the neighbour who lost a friend, we are so sorry for your loss. Such a tragedy should have never occurred,” said Trudeau.
Trudeau said this tragedy is a painful reminder of the risk of all first responders to keep us safe.
RCMP Const. Heidi Stevenson was among the victims. A second police officer suffered non-life threatening injuries.
“These are exceptional circumstances, yet you did what you always do — you ran towards danger without pause, without hesitation, you put your life on the line,” said Trudeau.
The prime minister also asked the media not to use the name or show the picture of the man responsible for the deadly shooting.
“Canadians are kind and generous. We are there for each other and we look out for one another. As families grieve the loss of a loved one, All Canadians are standing with them,” said Trudeau.