Surviving Canada’s Deadliest Shooter: My Struggle for Proof
On April 18, 2020, a tragic shooting spree in Portapique, Nova Scotia, left a community reeling. Gabriel Wortman, the perpetrator, murdered thirteen people in his neighborhood and claimed nine more victims the following day before being shot dead by the RCMP at a gas station. Lisa Banfield, Wortman’s common-law partner, escaped his violent rampage but endured years of abuse.
Uncovering the Truth Following a Massacre
Lisa Banfield has since authored a book detailing her experience with Wortman, titled *The First Survivor: Life with Canada’s Deadliest Mass Shooter*. Her narrative highlights the struggles of women in abusive relationships and aims to evoke compassion for such victims. Six months after the shootings, she returned to Portapique to seek closure and prove her truth.
Returning to Portapique
Banfield felt compelled to revisit the scene despite her post-traumatic stress disorder. Accompanied by her sisters and RCMP Staff Sergeant Greg Vardy, she attempted to find physical evidence of her traumatic experience. Vardy, with thirty years of experience in criminal investigations, aimed to aid her in seeking closure regarding her relationship with Wortman.
The Inquiry and Aftermath
The RCMP faced intense scrutiny following the tragic events. Families of the victims demanded a public inquiry into the police’s handling of the situation, specifically their failure to act promptly. Federal Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Bill Blair announced a joint public inquiry with the provincial government to investigate the matter further.
Banfield provided the RCMP access to her cellphone, which contained vital information and photos related to her life with Wortman. She also shared undisclosed details about their lifestyle, including cash hidden at their cottage, where many of the harrowing events transpired.
The Transition from Love to Abuse
Banfield described her initial attraction to Wortman, highlighting his charm and successful demeanor. However, this façade quickly deteriorated. Over the years, his controlling behavior became increasingly apparent, leading her to concede her autonomy and sanity. What began as love transformed into emotional and physical abuse.
Gabriel Wortman’s Violent Descent
In March 2020, as COVID-19 fears escalated, so did Wortman’s paranoia. He hoarded cash and stockpiled food, further illustrating his deteriorating mental state. Banfield recounted frightening instances where he became violent, emphasizing the control he held over her life.
By the time Wortman launched his horrific attack, he had transformed into a danger not only to those outside but to Banfield as well. Survivors, including the families of the victims, demanded answers, and the shadow of unanswered questions enveloped the community.
A Distressing Return
Banfield’s emotional return to Portapique was marked by eerie silence and haunting memories. Each landmark became a painful reminder of the violence that had unfolded. During her visit, she was confronted with the devastation that Wortman had wrought: vacant lots where homes once stood and chilling recollections of his actions.
Seeking Closure Amidst Chaos
As Banfield grappled with the trauma of her past, she recounted her intense feelings during her visit. Vardy and his team documented her experience, capturing every painful moment. Despite her intentions to find closure, the re-enactments triggered deep emotional turmoil, leaving her feeling vulnerable and exposed.
Confronting the Past
Ultimately, Banfield’s quest for proof extended beyond physical evidence; it also encompassed the need for acknowledgment of her experience. She sought healing and confronted her trauma, hoping to illuminate the realities faced by victims of domestic violence.
Legal Consequences and Reflection
Banfield’s journey took a convoluted turn when she and her family faced charges related to ammunition possession. Despite cooperating fully with the investigation, their transparency was overshadowed by public speculation and accusations, further illustrating the stigma surrounding abuse and victimhood.
In the aftermath, Banfield processed her grief, reflecting on Wortman’s actions and their repercussions. She emphasized the need for better protections and understanding for those in abusive relationships.
Lisa Banfield’s story is a poignant reminder of the complexities women face in abusive relationships and the need for society to engage with these issues compassionately. Her struggle for proof transcends her experiences with Gabriel Wortman, resonating with many who seek understanding and healing in the wake of trauma.
