Ottawa, Canada, is on high alert after reports of multiple shooters near the National War Memorial and the Canadian Parliament building early today. Details are still largely unknown, but what is almost certain at this point is that there were at least two active shooters in Ottawa today. It is believed that they were together.
One Canadian soldier has been killed while standing guard in front of the War Memorial. Although bystanders attempted to save him, his gunshot wounds were too much to overcome. The shooter from the War Memorial is believed to still be on the loose.
A second shooter, inside the Canadian Parliament building, may have been shot and killed by the police. Eyewitness Marc-Andre Viau told i24 news — a Canadian site — that he saw a shooter run into a caucus room while police pursued. Then he heard a number of shots, estimating the number to be between ten and 20. Other estimates put the number of shots in the Parliament building from 30-50.
Large parts of the surrounding area have been put under lockdown until more details are known. Here’s a visual of the situation:
Overall, the reaction from Canadians seems understandably horrified and upset. Canada does not often see such levels of violence.
And some are concerned that this is terrorist action, especially after an accused jihadist in Canada ran over a soldier and then was shot.
Others believe that while this unprecedented shooting may change things for Canada, it’s important to focus on endurance right now:
Further details and motives are still obviously unknown, but our thoughts go to those in Ottawa right now. Hopefully the second shooter will be detained soon.
Check back here for more details as the story develops.