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All of Canada is sending their love to Nova Scotia after deadly shooting

As Canadians attempt to process the shocking tragedy that claimed at least 19 lives in the rural town of Portapique, Nova Scotia, over the weekend, the country at large is standing in solidarity with those affected.

The hashtag #NovaScotiaStrong, among others, has emerged on social media, with thousands from all over the map offering messages of love, strength and support to the east coast community.

Many are extending their deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones in the mass shooting — which was the deadliest in Canadian history — from everyday individuals and organizations to political figures and even a pilot who circled over the area on a heart-shaped flight path.

Everyday individuals and public figures outside of Canada's borders, too, are taking a moment to reflect on the incident and remind the people of Nova Scotia that they're in the thoughts of people around the globe right now.

Within the province itself, groups have gathered along the main route to and from the headquarters of the Upper Tantallon RCMP, which is the detachment that responded to the crime Saturday night into Sunday morning.

They commemorate the life of RCMP Constable Heidi Stevenson, the 23-year veteran of the force who was among the victims of the rampage.

Virtual vigils, organized through social media, are also being held to mourn the lives lost.

Nova Scotia flags are flying at half-mast across the province and also in cities all over the country, from Halifax and Toronto to Regina and Vancouver as people from coast-to-coast honour the victims and their families.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is just one of many officials who have provided citizens with heartfelt statements of sympathy, but also uplifting messages of unity.

"I was saddened to learn about the senseless violence in Nova Scotia, which claimed the lives of multiple people... our hearts go out to the people who have lost loved ones," Trudeau said in a formal statement issued on April 19.

"As a country, in moments like these, we come together to support one another. Together we will mourn with the families of the victims, and help them get through this difficult time."

He also had a special message for kids trying to deal with what is a terrifying and devastating situation, which he shared at a press conference today.

"I know the world can seem like a mean and ugly place right now, but there's a whole lot of good in the world too. You'll see it in your neighbours and in Canadians in the days and weeks and months ahead," he told the public.

"We're here for you and we're going to get through this together, I promise."

During the killing spree, which started in the coastal community just outside of Halifax late on April 18 and extended into the following morning, a lone gunman disguised as an RCMP officer shot at least 18 people down at no less than 16 crime sites, which included victims' homes, some of which were set alight.

The 51-year-old perpetrator was pronounced dead by officials on April 19.

Though the atrocity is sending shockwaves through Nova Scotia and the entire country, hopefully the outpouring of support can offer at least a tiny bit of solace to those who are suffering as a result of the senseless and incomprehensible act of violence.

Lead photo by

PremierScottMoe


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