A small community in northern British Columbia was left in shock on Tuesday after a shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School left at least nine people dead. The suspected shooter was also found dead, and multiple others were injured, marking one of the most severe school attacks in Canada in decades.
Tragedy at the School and Nearby Home
Authorities said six victims were discovered inside the school, with another person dying while being transported to the hospital. The suspected gunman was found deceased at the scene, apparently from a self-inflicted injury.
Police later reported finding two more victims at a nearby residence linked to the shooting. In addition to the fatalities, around 25 people were treated for non-life-threatening injuries at a local medical centre. RCMP Superintendent Ken Floyd confirmed that the identity of the shooter is known but has not been released, and the motive remains unclear.
“We are not in a place to understand why or what may have motivated this tragedy,” Floyd said, adding that investigators are still examining how the victims were connected to the suspect.
Schools on Lockdown as Emergency Responders Arrive
Both Tumbler Ridge Secondary and the nearby elementary school were put on lockdown following the incident. Authorities deployed significant resources, including RCMP and ambulance support, to secure the area and assist the community, though details were limited to avoid compromising ongoing operations.
Tumbler Ridge is a remote town located over 1,000 kilometres north of Vancouver, near the Alberta border. The secondary school serves roughly 175 students in grades 7 through 12.
Leaders Offer Support and Condolences
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed deep sorrow for the victims and their families, pledging government support for the community. “I am devastated by today’s horrific shootings in Tumbler Ridge, BC. My prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones to these horrific acts of violence,” he wrote.
Carney highlighted the resilience and compassion of Canadians in times of crisis, saying the country’s unity and empathy are its greatest strengths in responding to tragedy.
School shootings are uncommon in Canada, making this event particularly shocking for both the local community and the nation.
