Release:
The Nova Scotia RCMP continues to investigate the incidents that began on April 18 in Portapique. The investigation is detailed and complex. The investigative team is focused on learning more about this very tragic situation, including accurate victim information and whether others may have aided the suspect.
The Nova Scotia RCMP continues to investigate the incidents that began on April 18 in Portapique. The investigation is detailed and complex. The investigative team is focused on learning more about this very tragic situation, including accurate victim information and whether others may have aided the suspect.
The following is an account of what we know so far about the incidents on April 18 and 19:
On Saturday, April 18, Nova Scotia RCMP members responded to a possible shooting incident at a home in Portapique in Colchester County.
When police arrived, members located several casualties inside and outside of a home. They did not, however, locate a suspect. Officers secured the area and began to search for the suspect.
Residents of the immediate area were being evacuated by police while the search was ongoing.
The initial search for a suspect led to multiple sites in the immediate area, including structures and vehicles that were on fire.
Gabriel Wortman as identified as the suspect and the search for him continued overnight and into the morning of Sunday, April 19 through multiple communities in Colchester County.
The search ended on April 19 when Gabriel Wortman was located by members at a service station in Enfield. Wortman was shot by police and later died. This matter has been referred to SiRT.
Nova Scotia RCMP are currently at 16 specific locations in the communities of Portapique, Wentworth, Debert, Shubenacadie/Milford and Enfield to gather evidence and learn more about what occurred at each location.
We believe there to be 23 victims, including a 17-year-old. All other victims are adults, both men and women. Among the victims is Cst. Heidi Stevenson, a 23-year veteran of the RCMP. Some of the victims were known to Gabriel Wortman and were targeted while others were not known to the suspect.
Our thoughts are with all of the victims’ families and we are particularly mindful of families who have not yet received confirmation that their loved ones were involved. This is an unprecedented incident that has resulted in incredible loss and heartbreak for countless families and loved ones. So many lives will be forever touched, including all who responded, community members, multiple RCMP units, including our Operational Communications Centre, municipal police services, firefighters, and EHS.
Nova Scotia RCMP would like to acknowledge the support we have been receiving from Nova Scotians, from Canadians and from our many colleagues here and across the country. Your support means so much and will help us heal. While we have lost one of our own, and had one of our members injured, we would like to acknowledge the many other individuals who were affected by this tragedy. We are humbled by the stories of their lives and contributions to their communities.
Attached are questions and answers that provide more information on the tragic incidents of April 18 and 19.
More information will be provided when available.