Canadian gunman kills 3 officers, injures others in shooting rampage

USPA News - At least three police officers were killed late on Wednesday and two others were injured when a camouflage-clad gunman went on a shooting rampage in the Canadian city of Moncton, prompting a massive manhunt, officials said on Thursday morning. The incident began at approximately 7:20 p.m. local time when the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) responded to a 911 call about a man with a gun near woods in the western part of the city.

"When they responded they were shot and killed," said RCMP spokesman Paul Greene. Footage uploaded on social media showed a family looking out of their front window as the gunman engaged police officers on the street. "He`s gonna shoot him. He`s gonna f shoot him," a man is heard saying as he looks out of the window, seconds before two gunshots are heard. "He shot him. He shot the f cop. Dial 911!" Photos from the neighborhood showed several vehicles, both police cars and civilian cars, with broken windows, apparently from the gunfire. Authorities, who identified the suspect as 24-year-old Justin Bourque of Moncton, said a massive manhunt continued early Thursday morning with roads in the area blocked by heavily-armed police. The gunman was believed to be in the city`s Pinehurst Subdivision at around midnight local time and residents in the area were urged to stay inside with their doors and windows locked. "I urge all residents to please pay strict attention to the RCMP warnings. The police and other emergency personnel are working under extremely difficult conditions and need our complete cooperation," said Moncton Mayor George LeBlanc. "Stay home, stay safe. If you cannot get home, seek out a friend or family and remain there until you are advised otherwise." Greene said three police officers had been killed in the shooting while at least two other officers sustained non-life threatening injuries. The Horizon Health Network said its hospital in Moncton had received three gunshot victims, but it was unclear if the number included one of the officers who died. "Above all, I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the fallen officers, as well as to their colleagues. Their bravery and actions in the line of duty will forever be remembered," LeBlanc said. "This is a very trying evening in our community, please remain calm but vigilant. I am confident that the RCMP will soon restore peace and order." Other government leaders also expressed their concern about the ongoing situation, including New Brunswick Premier David Alward. "I was shocked and saddened to learn of tonight`s tragic situation in Moncton," he said. "On behalf of all New Brunswickers, I would like to extend my thoughts and prayers to those affected."