The death toll in Canada's deadliest mass shooting has risen to 23, police confirmed Tuesday, after discovering four more bodies in properties burned by the gunman. Gabriel Wortman, 51, a millionaire denturist whose business was closed due to coronavirus, was shot dead after a 12-hour rampage across Nova Scotia.
Wortman had a long-standing obsession with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), according to acquaintances and school yearbook entries. He collected decommissioned police cars and gear, which he used to impersonate an officer during the attack, pulling over victims before executing them. RCMP Chief Superintendent Chris Leather said his ability to move undetected was 'greatly benefited' by his replica police vehicle.
Friends described Wortman as a 'great friend' in high school, but neighbours revealed he suffered from an alcohol problem. His denture clinic, Atlantic Denture Clinic in Dartmouth, had been forced to close during the coronavirus lockdown. The shooter's ex-wife and her new boyfriend are believed to be among the first victims.
Victims include a 17-year-old, RCMP officer Heidi Stevenson, a mother-of-two, an elementary school teacher, a nurse, a care assistant, a family of three, and a husband and wife leaving four children. The Queen sent a message of condolence, paying tribute to the bravery of RCMP officers who responded.
