5 years on Nova Scotians take a moment of silence for mass shooting victims

The night of April 18, 2020 is one that changed Nova Scotia and Canada permanently.

Classified as the worst mass killing in Canadian history, a shooting rampage left 22 dead and another six victims injured.

On the night of April 18, 2020, a gunman disguised as a Mountie killed 13 neighbours and strangers in Portapique, N.S.. He managed to escape the small community on the Bay of Fundy as RCMP officers converged on the area.

The next day, the killer was driving a car identical to an RCMP cruiser when he fatally shot another nine people across northern and central Nova Scotia before he was shot dead by two Mounties at a gas station north of Halifax

Five years on, Nova Scotians take a moment to remember those whose lives were violently snatched.

“To all Nova Scotians – I encourage you to observe a moment of silence at noon on April 18 and April 19,” Premier Tim Houston said in a statement. “I also ask that you continue to be compassionate and supportive during this difficult time, honouring the privacy of the families and communities impacted and giving them space to grieve, reflect and remember.”

Premier Houston said the flags at the Province House and all provincial government buildings and institutions will fly at half-mast over the next two days.

There are also resources available for those suffering from the calamity of the tragic days. The provincial mental health crisis line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-429-8167.

“To the families, survivors and communities – I want you to know that Nova Scotians continue to have you all in our thoughts and close to our hearts,” Houston said.

“I continue to be inspired by your courage and your strength. Know that we stand with you today and every day. We remain Nova Scotia Strong.”