Canada: Man disguised as police officer killed 16 people

(Patria) – A man disguised as a police officer killed 16 people with a firearm in Canada, in an attack described by the media as the deadliest in the country's history.

Police believe it is possible that the attacker targeted his victims before carrying out the attack.

A police officer was also killed in the attack that took place in the province of Nova Scotia, as was the attacker himself.

Several lifeless bodies were found in and around a house in the small town of Portapique. During the night, police advised residents to lock themselves in their homes and stay in their basements. Several houses were set on fire.

Bodies were also found at other locations.

The suspect in the attack has been identified as Gabriel Wortman (51). Police initially announced that he had been arrested, but later reported that he was dead without explaining how it happened.

Police confirmed that 16 people lost their lives. The police officer killed in the attack was a veteran in service and a mother of two.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also commented, saying he was 'sorry for the senseless violence' and thanked the police forces for their dedicated work.

Such attacks are relatively rare in Canada, where it is illegal to possess unregistered firearms. For those who own firearms, in addition to registration, training in their use, two references, notification of a spouse, and a background check are required before a permit to acquire a firearm is issued, Euronews reports.