Fatal shooting in Dartmouth ruled a homicide by police

A 48-year-old Dartmouth man has been identified as the ninth homicide victim in the Halifax area this year.

Rickey Walker was shot and killed early Thursday morning, Halifax Regional Police confirmed Friday.

Police say a man called just before 3 a.m. on Thursday to say he had been shot. He was found near John MacNeil Elementary School on Leaman Drive.

Walker was transported to hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

'He had a great personality'

Anti-violence activist Quentrel Provo knew Walker, a former co-worker, whom he described as a quiet man.

"He had a great personality, he was just an amazing person. He had a lot of skills," he told CBC News on Thursday.

"It was pretty shocking to hear it was him. Who would do this? It's frustrating."

Provo speaks at schools and organizes public events and anti-violence marches as the founder of Stop The Hate, Spread The Love.

Anti-violence events planned

"All these homicides, it is beyond heartbreaking. I'm at a loss for words," he said about the flurry of gun-related deaths in the Halifax area since the spring.

"It means I have to continue to do more, put my all in and hopefully one day, we will see change. This movement needs to grow. We need to get to the kids before someone else loses their life."

• Homicides have claimed 9 lives in Halifax area so far this year

Ceasefire Halifax, a non-profit organization to eliminate violence among black youths, has organized a march Saturday to respond to the recent violence as well as a barbecue Sunday at the East Preston Community Centre.

Investigation continues

Investigators were at the Dartmouth scene until 5:30 p.m. on Friday,canvassing the neighbourhood.

Search and rescue staff werealso helping to search for potential evidence.

Police are appealing to the public for tips. Anyone with information is asked to call 902-490-5016 or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, submitting a tip online or texting TIP 202 and a message to 274637.