Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby offered a message of support to his fellow Nova Scotians while his home province continues to grieve the deaths of 22 people lost in a shooting last week.

"I'm in Pittsburgh, but being from Nova Scotia, my heart and mind is home with all of you," Crosby said. "I'd like to extend my condolences to all the family and friends affected by this tragedy, as well to the family of Constable Heidi Stevenson from Cole Harbour, who sacrificed her life protecting others. I’d like to thank all the first responders and, as well, the medical personnel that faced this nightmare head on to keep us all safe.

"I know we’ll stick together as we always do through challenging times, and help support those who need it the most. I’m sending all my love and support back home."

Crosby, who was born in Halifax, grew up in Cole Harbour - a town where one of the victims, Constable Heidi Stevenson, was from. He was one of several Nova Scotian athletes to offer thoughts and prayers to the province.

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