Gabriel Wortman, a 51-year-old denturist, embarked on a violent spree across Nova Scotia that lasted around 13 hours and resulted in the deaths of 22 individuals, making it the deadliest mass shooting in Canada's history. The rampage began in the early hours of April 19, 2020, in Portapique, where Wortman killed several people, including his former partner. He then drove to multiple locations, wearing a police uniform and using a replica police car to blend in with law enforcement. The attack spread rapidly across several rural communities, including Wentworth, Debert, and Truro, as Wortman continued his assault. During the course of the day, he used firearms at various locations, leading to widespread panic and an intense manhunt by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

Wortman's crime resulted in significant media coverage and national outrage. His ability to maintain a police disguise led to discussions on public safety protocols, particularly why he was able to operate undetected for so long. The RCMP received criticism for their response times and communication lapses, further fueling the investigation into how Wortman managed to carry out such widespread violence.

The manhunt concluded with Wortman's death after he was confronted by police in Enfield, Nova Scotia. The sheer scale of the violence and the nature of Wortman's actions prompted discussions about gun control in Canada, an ongoing debate in the context of the country's historically strict firearms regulations. Mental health issues and the effects of domestic violence were also highlighted in the wake of the tragedy, with the event raising awareness about the challenges many face during such crises.