Nine people have been killed and dozens injured in a shooting at a school in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, in what authorities are describing as one of the deadliest incidents in the region’s recent history. Police confirmed that the suspected gunman was later found dead from what they called a self-inflicted injury, while investigations continue into whether others may have been involved.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said officers responded to reports of an active shooter at the local high school early Tuesday afternoon. Emergency services were dispatched immediately, and the area around the campus was cordoned off as first responders worked to secure the scene and assist victims.
According to preliminary information shared by police, six victims were found dead inside the school premises. Two additional individuals were discovered deceased at a nearby residence believed to be connected to the incident. Authorities later confirmed a ninth fatality linked to the shooting. Several others were transported to nearby hospitals with injuries ranging from critical to non-life-threatening.
Police have not yet publicly identified the victims, citing the need to notify families. Officials emphasised that casualty figures could change as investigations continue and medical assessments are updated.
Emergency Response and Shelter Orders
Shortly after 2 p.m., an emergency alert was sent to mobile phones across Tumbler Ridge and surrounding areas, urging residents to shelter in place, lock doors, and avoid public spaces while law enforcement responded to the unfolding situation. Schools in neighbouring districts were also placed on precautionary lockdown.
The RCMP confirmed that officers secured the school building and surrounding streets within hours. A suspect was located dead, though investigators are still examining evidence to determine the full sequence of events and whether there were any accomplices.
Earlier alerts described a suspect as a female wearing a dress with brown hair. However, police later cautioned that initial descriptions during active situations are often based on unverified eyewitness accounts and may not reflect confirmed facts.
Staff Sergeant Clark of the RCMP said such incidents are frequently marked by confusion in the early stages. “These situations are chaotic, and multiple reports often emerge simultaneously. Our priority is to verify information before drawing conclusions,” he said.
Community in Shock
Tumbler Ridge, a small community in northeastern British Columbia, has been left reeling by the violence. Parents gathered anxiously outside safety perimeters as authorities worked inside the school. Counseling services and crisis support teams have since been mobilised for students, staff, and families affected by the tragedy.
The Tumbler Ridge Health Centre was placed under Code Orange a protocol indicating a mass casualty or major emergency response to manage the influx of patients and coordinate emergency medical services. Northern Health spokesperson Eryn Collins confirmed that restricted access measures were implemented to ensure patient care and safety.
Prime Minister Responds
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his condolences in a statement posted on social media platform X, describing the shooting as a “horrific tragedy.”
“I am devastated by today’s horrific shootings in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. My prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones,” Carney wrote. “I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed irreversibly, and in gratitude for the courage and selflessness of the first responders.”
Carney said he had spoken with British Columbia Premier David Eby and Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree to coordinate federal support. “Our officials are in close contact with provincial counterparts to ensure the community receives the assistance it needs,” he added.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing forensic examinations of the school and related sites. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and analysing digital communications to determine the motive behind the attack.
Police have not confirmed whether the suspect was a student, staff member, or external individual. They also declined to speculate on potential motives, stressing that it remains an active and complex investigation.
According to reporting by The Globe and Mail, officials are focused on establishing the timeline of events and verifying whether the attacker acted alone. Law enforcement agencies have urged the public to refrain from circulating unverified information on social media, noting that misinformation can hinder investigative efforts and intensify community distress.
National Conversation on Safety
The shooting has reignited debate in Canada about school safety, emergency preparedness, and gun control. While Canada has stricter firearms regulations compared to several other countries, incidents of gun violence particularly in public institutions continue to draw national scrutiny.
Education authorities across British Columbia have announced reviews of security protocols and crisis response measures. Mental health experts are also emphasising the importance of long-term psychological support for students and families exposed to traumatic events.
As Tumbler Ridge begins to mourn its losses, officials say restoring a sense of safety will take time. Community leaders have planned candlelight vigils and remembrance gatherings in the coming days.
For now, investigators remain focused on piecing together what led to the violence and ensuring accountability where necessary. Police have urged anyone with relevant information, photos, or video footage to contact authorities as the probe continues.
The tragedy stands as a stark reminder of how quickly ordinary school days can turn into scenes of unimaginable loss and of the urgent need for vigilance, support systems, and collective resolve in the face of violence.
