The Queen has written a message of support to the people of Nova Scotia after the small Canadian province suffered an unimaginable tragedy when a gunman killed in excess of 18 people on Saturday and Sunday.
The message, sent to the Governor General of Canada and the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, reads:
“Prince Philip and I have been deeply saddened by the appalling events in Nova Scotia, and we send our condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of those who have lost their lives.
“I also pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the officers from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and other police services who selflessly responded to these devastating attacks, and to the emergency services who are supporting those who have been injured and affected.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Nova Scotia and all Canadians at this tragic time.”
The mass shooting that took place over the weekend in Nova Scotia is still unfolding, with at least 16 crime scenes spread across 90 kilometres of the province, and a rising death toll as investigators continue to search the scenes. It is the worst mass shooting in Canadian history.
The Queen and Prince Philip visited Nova Scotia on their last official visit to Canada in 2010, celebrating the centenary of the Royal Canadian Navy while in the province.
