CBC: Sikh temple gunman's online activity probed

Canadians are expressing shock and condolences following the shooting at a Milwaukee-area Sikh temple. Prem Singh Vinning, president of the Ottawa-based World Sikh Organization of Canada, said: "Sikhs in Canada and across the world are shocked by the horrific violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.

Canadians react
Canadians are expressing shock and condolences following the shooting at a Milwaukee-area Sikh temple.

Prem Singh Vinning, president of the Ottawa-based World Sikh Organization of Canada, said: "Sikhs in Canada and across the world are shocked by the horrific violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.

"As the situation becomes clearer, it will be essential to understand the reasons that led to this senseless tragedy," he said in a statement on the WSO's website. He told CBC News people shouldn't jump to conclusions before more details are known.

In Vancouver, members of the Sikh community were preparing Monday for memorial services for the Wisconsin victims, while in Surrey, B.C., community members are planning a vigil for Tuesday night.

Worshippers at the Khalsa Dabar Temple in Mississauga, Ont., have been participating in special prayer sessions, with president Jasjit Singh Bhullar saying Sikhs around the world lost brothers and sisters in this attack. Bhullar said Khalsa Dabar will remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but he is considering adding extra security.

Canadian government reaction included thoughts from Liberal Leader Bob Rae, who tweeted Monday morning: "I want to express our solidarity with the Sikh community after the terrible and hateful attack in Wisconsin. It is a time to stand together."

In a statement, Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird said: "Canadians were shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the attack on worshippers … Canada condemns this senseless act of violence."

—CBC News