2014 Shootings at Parliament Hill, Ottawa

On 22 October 2014 a gunman fatally shot a Canadian soldier at the National War Memorial and then attacked Parliament Hill in Ottawa; the attacker was killed and authorities described the incident as a terrorist act.

Overview

On 22 October 2014 an armed assailant opened fire at the National War Memorial in central Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The attacker fatally wounded Corporal Nathan Cirillo, a reservist standing ceremonial guard, and then proceeded toward the Parliament Buildings. The incident shut down the parliamentary precinct and prompted a major law-enforcement response. Federal leaders quickly characterized the event as a terrorist attack.

Sequence of events

The shooter first approached the National War Memorial and shot the on-duty ceremonial sentry. He walked or ran toward the Centre Block of Parliament, where he exchanged gunfire with security forces inside the building. The assailant died at the scene after being confronted by parliamentary security and Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers; Sergeant-at-Arms Kevin Vickers was publicly credited with helping to neutralize the attacker.

Victim and perpetrator

The soldier killed was Corporal Nathan Cirillo, a member of The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of the Canadian Forces who was serving in a ceremonial role at the memorial. Police later identified the shooter and conducted investigations into his background and motives; authorities explored links to violent extremism and lone-actor radicalization while noting aspects of the case remained under review.

Official response and public reaction

Political and law-enforcement leaders responded immediately. The Prime Minister and other officials addressed the nation; then-Prime Minister Stephen Harper described the assault as an attack on Canadian institutions. Parliament went into lockdown, national security agencies opened investigations, and vigils and memorials followed as communities expressed shock and grief.

Aftermath and significance

The shootings prompted reviews of security at federal sites, discussions about the prevention of radicalization, and changes to how ceremonial sites and legislative buildings are protected. The event is often cited in Canada’s recent history as a catalyst for policy debates about counter‑terrorism, public safety, and support for victims and first responders.