Deadly School Shooting Rocks Canadian Community
A quiet community in northeastern British Columbia has been shattered by a horrific mass shooting that claimed nine lives and left twenty-five people injured. The attack occurred at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and a nearby residence, sending shockwaves through the small town of fewer than 2,400 residents.
Prime Minister Carney Responds to National Tragedy
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney publicly addressed the nation hours after the incident, describing himself as devastated by the unfolding events. In a message posted on social media platform X, Carney expressed profound sympathy for affected families and praised emergency responders who rushed to the scene.
"My prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and friends who lost loved ones to these horrific acts of violence," Carney stated. He confirmed that the federal government was coordinating support with British Columbia's premier and public safety minister to assist the grieving community.
Police Investigation Reveals Chilling Details
According to Royal Canadian Mounted Police reports, officers responded to active shooter alerts shortly after midday local time. The grim discovery included:
- Six victims found dead inside the secondary school
- A seventh victim who died while being transported to hospital
- Two additional bodies discovered at a nearby residence believed connected to the school shooting
Authorities confirmed that approximately twenty-five people sustained non-life-threatening injuries, with at least two individuals hospitalized in serious condition. Police found the suspected attacker deceased at the school with what appeared to be self-inflicted injuries.
Community in Shock and Mourning
Tumbler Ridge, known for its tight-knit social fabric and historically low crime rates, now faces one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history. Chief Superintendent Ken Floyd of the RCMP described the scene as intensely emotional and taxing for all responders.
Investigators continue working to establish:
- The precise motive behind the attack
- The connection between the school and nearby residence
- Complete details about the suspect's identity and background
While police have not formally confirmed the suspect's gender, an emergency alert issued during the incident described the individual as a woman wearing a dress with brown hair.
Political Leaders Unite in Condolences
British Columbia Premier David Eby characterized the shooting as an "unimaginable tragedy" and pledged comprehensive government support for community members in the coming days. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith extended condolences, noting that the entire nation stands with those affected.
Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre condemned what he called a senseless act of violence, expressing particular sympathy for students, teachers, families, and first responders caught in the tragedy.
Ongoing Response and School Closures
Local authorities have announced that Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and a nearby elementary school will remain closed for the remainder of the week. The school district has committed to providing counseling and support services for students, staff, and families affected by the violence.
Initial shelter-in-place orders have been lifted after police confirmed no ongoing threat to public safety. However, investigators continue searching nearby properties and gathering evidence as the community begins the painful process of healing from this devastating attack.
