Nova Scotia RCMP have confirmed all four family members found dead in a home in Upper Big Tracadie, N.S., Tuesday evening died of gunshot wounds.
READ MORE: Military veteran among 4 family members shot in apparent Nova Scotia murder-suicide
As a result of their investigation, RCMP are also confirming the shooting incident as a triple murder and suicide, as Lionel Desmond’s injuries were self-inflicted.
Lionel Desmond, his wife Shanna, their daughter Aaliyah and his mother Brenda were all found dead Tuesday night by a family member.
“This is a very unique case, and a lot of people have said for Nova Scotia, but it’s a very unique and tragic and very disturbing case for anywhere, for anyone to encounter,” RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jennifer Clarke said during a news conference Friday.
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Relatives say Desmond, a military veteran who served in Afghanistan, suffered from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
READ MORE: ‘I will fix it,’ Lionel Desmond said before Nova Scotia murder-suicides
Clarke did not give specifics on the mental state of Lionel Desmond, firearms and time of death of the individuals weren’t available.
“We will continue to work through this investigation until we understand exactly what took place, to the best of our ability,” Clarke said.
WATCH: Murder-suicide a unique case not just for Nova Scotia: RCMP
Clarke said at the time, police are not investigating the murder-suicide as a case of domestic violence.
When asked about whether RCMP are looking at whether PTSD was a factor in the killings, Clarke said investigators would “look at everything we could find to find out what happened here, that may or may not be part of our investigation.”
READ MORE: Soldier who fought with Lionel Desmond says Afghanistan tour ‘full of death’
Clarke added there are supports in place for RCMP members involved in investigations like this.
“I won’t say that PTSD is a problem for the RCMP, but we certainly do have a process in place for members who respond to tragic events like this one.”
Clarke said the investigation is ongoing.
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