Story perspectives

RCMP Cancels Training to Honor 2020 Mass Shooting Victims

4/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mike Duheme, Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, apologized for scheduling training in Debert, Nova Scotia ahead of the sixth anniversary of the 2020 mass shooting that killed 22 people.
Alana Hirtle, Liberal MP, criticized the decision as insensitive, tone-deaf, and unacceptable, citing community pain and anxiety.
In response to backlash, the RCMP decided to end the training early to prevent it from coinciding with the April 18-19 anniversary.

1 of 1

Story summary

Mike Duheme, Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, apologized for scheduling training in Debert, Nova Scotia ahead of the sixth anniversary of the 2020 mass shooting that killed 22 people.
Alana Hirtle, Liberal MP, criticized the decision as insensitive, tone-deaf, and unacceptable, citing community pain and anxiety.
In response to backlash, the RCMP decided to end the training early to prevent it from coinciding with the April 18-19 anniversary.