Tumbler Ridge school shooting has left at least 10 people dead after gunfire erupted at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia’s Peace region on Tuesday, in what authorities are calling one of the deadliest acts of violence in the province in recent years. The tragedy has shaken the small northern community and prompted an outpouring of grief and condemnation from leaders across Canada.
According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), six victims were found dead inside the school. One person died while being transported to hospital, and two additional victims were later discovered at a second location believed to be connected to the incident. The suspect was also found deceased, reportedly from a self-inflicted injury. In total, 10 people lost their lives.
Twenty-five others are receiving medical attention at a local health centre.
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Police Response and Investigation
The RCMP confirmed that officers responded to reports of an active shooter at the school and immediately entered the building to locate and neutralize the threat. During their search, police discovered multiple victims.
“An individual believed to be the shooter was also found deceased with what appears to be a self-inflicted injury,” the RCMP said in a statement.
An emergency text alert issued Tuesday afternoon described the suspect as a “female in a dress with brown hair.” Authorities later cancelled the public alert (PIPA), stating they did not believe there were any additional suspects or ongoing danger to the public.
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the shootings, including the connection between the school and the second location where two victims were found.
National Leaders Express Grief
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy, offering condolences to the victims’ families.
“My prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones to these horrific acts of violence,” Carney said in a statement posted on X.
The Prime Minister confirmed he had spoken with Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree, who is leading the federal response. “Our officials are working closely with provincial counterparts to ensure the community receives the support it needs,” Carney added.
British Columbia Premier David Eby described the violence as “unimaginable,” pledging full provincial support to those affected.
“Government will ensure every possible support for community members in the coming days, as we all try to come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy,” Eby wrote on X.
Tumbler Ridge municipality also issued a statement expressing devastation over the loss of life and the impact on families, students, staff and the broader community.
Federal opposition leader Pierre Poilievre condemned the attack as a “senseless act of violence.”
“Our prayers are with the families, students, teachers, first responders, and the entire community grieving this profound loss,” he said.
Community in Mourning
The shootings have left the tight-knit town of Tumbler Ridge reeling. Schools in the area are expected to provide counselling and mental health support to students and staff in the days ahead.
As investigators continue their work, officials have urged the public to rely on verified updates and to respect the privacy of the grieving families.
The Tumbler Ridge school shooting stands as a stark reminder of the devastating toll of gun violence, with a community now united in mourning and seeking answers in the wake of an unthinkable tragedy.