Canada opened an independent public inquiry on Tuesday (February 22) into the worst killing in its history, which occurred almost two years ago when a gunman disguised as a policeman killed 22 people in Nova Scotia, in the east of the country.
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"
Many are here to find out what happened, why it happened and how we can make sure it never happens again ," said the commissioner and chairman of the "
losses commission
" in his opening speech.
massive
”, Michael MacDonald.
This commission was established in October 2020 by the federal government of Canada and that of the province of Nova Scotia to shed light on this shooting during which the police response was strongly criticized.
A 12-hour manhunt
On April 18 and 19, 2020, a 51-year-old dental technician, driving a fake police car, shot dead people he knew and others who were unknown to him, during a murderous spree in this region. rural and quiet.
After a manhunt that lasted more than 12 hours, the police killed him in a gas station.
The investigation into this carnage was spread over 16 crime scenes, including burned buildings and houses.
A policewoman on duty with the RCMP (federal police) is among the victims.
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At the opening of the inquiry on Tuesday morning, a moment of silence was observed after Commissioner MacDonald read the names of the 22 victims.
In a statement, the premier of Nova Scotia urged the commission to "
meet with the families
" of the victims.
“
Over the past few weeks, I have heard family members express frustration and concern about the structure of the investigation.
They feel like they've been left in the dark.
Not only is it disrespectful, but it should make us think and ask ourselves: If families don't trust the process, how can the public?
said Tim Houston.
The commission is due to release an interim report in May, followed by a final report including the findings of the inquiry and its recommendations in November.