Trudeau vows to push for stricter gun laws in wake of Nova Scotia shooting

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is vowing to push for stricter gun legislation after a mass shooting in Nova Scotia killed 23, including a police officer.

Trudeau told reporters on Monday that lawmakers had been working on passing an assault weapons ban before Sunday’s shooting, and were planning to press ahead following the attack, according to BuzzFeed News.

“I can say that we were on the verge of introducing legislation to ban assault-style weapons across this country,” Trudeau said. “It was interrupted when the pandemic caused parliament to be suspended, but we have every intention of moving forward on that measure, and potentially other measures, when parliament returns.”

The deadly rampage in Nova Scotia reportedly involved a man disguised as a police officer driving a vehicle meant to look like a patrol car, pulling over motorists before shooting them. Details about the type of weapon used have not been released.

The suspect, 51-year-old Gabriel Wortman, is believed to have initiated the shooting after a domestic incident. Police said he died of injuries sustained during his arrest.

Trudeau reportedly suggested during Monday’s briefing that mourners hold virtual vigils for victims of the attack, as the coronavirus outbreak has prohibited public gatherings.

“This is something that we are dealing with right now that is heartbreak on top of other heartbreaks,” he said. “I know that everyone will be looking for ways to demonstrate their solidarity without putting further at-risk communities, first responders, our health professionals, and our seniors.”