Death toll in NS could rise as investigation into rampage continues

The death toll from a killing rampage in Nova Scotia could rise today.

Nineteen people were confirmed dead as of yesterday following Sunday's tragedy, but police expect the number of victims to go up.

Police say the 16 crime scenes include five burned buildings where it is feared additional bodies will be found inside.

RCMP Chief Supt. Chris Leather said he expects the number of victims to increase in the days ahead.

The murder and arson rampage finally ended when active shooter Gabriel Wortman was shot dead Sunday by RCMP officers in Enfield, N.S., next to the gas pumps at a service station.

The RCMP opted to use its Twitter account to provide updates during the active shooter investigation.

Premier Stephen McNeil said the province's emergency alert system wasn't used because no request was received.

Meanwhile, messages of sympathy and support continued to pour in for those who lost loved ones in the deadly spree.

Queen Elizabeth issued a statement this morning saying she and Prince Philip were "deeply saddened" by the "appalling" events, and sending condolences to those affected.

The Queen also paid tribute to the "bravery and sacrifice" of RCMP and first responders.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Nova Scotia and all Canadians at this tragic time," she said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 21, 2020.