At approximately 2230 local time on 18 April 2020 (0130 UTC on 19 April), a gunman dressed as a police officer began shooting at homes and setting them ablaze in the rural town of Portapique, located in Nova Scotia province. Security personnel established a security cordon around Bay Shore, Five Houses and Portapique Beach roads, and advised the public to avoid the area if possible. Authorities also ordered residents in the area to lock their doors and shelter in place while the assailant drove around the area in a vehicle that had been altered to look like a police cruiser. The event developed into a highway pursuit as the gunman led officers east through the city of Truro, and then south toward Milford — located approximately 60 km (35 mi) north of Halifax — before officials subdued him; the pursuit covered a distance of approximately 80 km. At least 16 people, including a police officer, were killed in the 12-hour-long episode. Authorities later stated that the suspect died as well, but did not disclose the circumstances of his death. The gunman’s motive remains under investigation.