Canadian shooting victim identified

The soldier gunned down at Canada's National War Memorial has been identified as Corporal Nathan Cirillo.

The 24-year-old member of the honour guard was guarding Canada's tomb of the Unknown Soldier when he was killed by a masked gunman who then when on a shooting spree inside Parliament.

The rampage was brief, with Sergeant-at-Arms Kevin Vickers shooting dead the gunman who has since been identified as Canadian Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, reports the National Post.

"Today a member of Hamilton's own Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders was killed while performing the duties of a sentry at the National War Memorial," Hamilton Mayor Bob Bratina said in a statement.

A Facebook page has been set up in Cpl. Cirillo's honour named Rest In Peace Cpl Nathan Cirillo and has already attracted thousands of users.

One message, from Bob Rodkin, read: "RIP Nathan. Thank you for your service and the ultimate sacrifice. So tragic, so unnecessary. My prayers go out for you and to your family, friends and colleagues."

Another message, from Olivia Marie, said: "RIP Nathan! Thank you for defending our country, your son is so proud of you. I miss you."