Military will be supporting investigation into Nova Scotia mass shooting: sources

The Canadian military will be supporting law enforcement in Nova Scotia in the investigation into a mass shooting that left at least 19 people dead, including an RCMP member.

Multiple sources tell Global News the military will be providing equipment such as tents, generators and lights to help protect and process the crime scenes.

Roughly 30 Canadian Forces members will also be involved in providing that support.

The shootings took place at multiple locations and police have said they believe the death toll could rise as they process additional crime scenes, including several burned-out residences.

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The rampage marked the deadliest mass shooting in Canadian history.

The alleged gunman is also dead.

2:31 The deadliest massacres in Canadian history

Little is known right now about many facets of the tragedy, including how the gunman got his weapon or what his motivation was for the rampage.

However, police have said they do not believe the violence was random.

The gunman was driving what appeared to be an RCMP vehicle and wearing what appeared to be a similar uniform during the shooting spree.

RCMP are leading the investigation.

The first reports of “a person with firearms” came in to local law enforcement around 10:30 PM on Saturday and then evolved into an active shooter situation that ended on Sunday.

READ MORE: Nova Scotia community reeling as shooting spree death toll continues to climb

Among the victims is RCMP Const. Heidi Stevenson, a 23-year veteran of the force and mother of two.

Another RCMP officer was injured in the shooting spree but is expected to recover.

READ MORE: What we know about the alleged gunman

The tragedy’s toll on the rural Nova Scotia communities around Portapique come amid the coronavirus pandemic, which has forced millions of Canadians into lockdowns in a bid to limit the spread.

Gatherings such as funerals have also been banned, adding to the difficulties for those who have lost loved ones and communities reeling from the violence.

A virtual vigil will be held on April 24, with details still to be determined.

More to come.