Yea.. the states is also a much more populated country..obviously you're going to have a lot of violent crimes when it's written into your constitution that you're allowed.. and even encouraged to have guns. Handguns are supposed to be a big no-no in Canada, when you enter this country there's a big sign that says "Handguns are Illegal In Canada." ...but when people are found with handguns, they're mearly slapped on the wrist.
Like dopesmoker says.. it's not the acts itself it's the nature of it. A lot of Toronto's shootings occur on the sidewalk of a busy street.. or on a bus.. or in the middle of a mall. Not just domestic violence, but acts of war if you will between gangs and ethnic groups.
People are shot just walking down the street. Innocent people. A girl was shot in the head earlier this year when a shooter opened fire on a crowded TTC bus. Thankfully she lived, but the blatent disregard for innocent bystanders is sickening.

Yes, we're very fortunate that only one was killed this time but look at the victim, she was only 15..out with her family on boxing day.

The big issue here is how to deal with the groups that are causing this violence.