A mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia on Tuesday has left at least 10 people dead, including the suspected gunman, and about 27 others injured, police say.
The suspected shooter, described by police as a female in a dress with brown hair, was found dead at the scene from an apparent self-inflicted wound after the attacks.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims nor determined a motive as the investigation continues.
Rapid Response and Timeline of the Attack
Police received the first report of an active shooter at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time on Tuesday.
Officers from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) responded within minutes, securing the school and initiating evacuation and lockdown procedures.
Inside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, six people were found dead, and another victim died later while being transported to hospital.
Two additional bodies were discovered at a residence nearby that police believe is connected to the incident.
At least 25 other people were treated for injuries at the local medical centre, with two airlifted to larger facilities for more serious care, officials said.
Community Locked Down and Emergency Measures
Following reports of the shooting, local authorities issued an active-shooter alert and told residents to shelter in place.
The lockdown remained in effect for several hours before being lifted once police confirmed there was no further threat.
Both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and the elementary school in the community will remain closed for at least the rest of the week as officials provide support and counselling.
Senior Officials Respond to the Tragedy
British Columbia Premier David Eby described the attack as an “unimaginable tragedy” and pledged government support for affected families and the broader community.
Prime Minister Mark Carney postponed a scheduled trip abroad to focus on federal support and response efforts.
National organizations, including the Canadian Olympic Committee, expressed sorrow and solidarity from afar, recognizing the deep emotional impact on families and the town.
A Small Town Shattered by Violence
Tumbler Ridge is a remote community in northeastern British Columbia, more than 600 kilometres north of Vancouver.
With a population of around 2,400, many residents know one another personally — amplifying the grief and shock caused by an event of this scale.
Students and teachers described harrowing scenes of sheltering in place, hiding in classrooms or barricading doors for safety during the lockdown.
Context: Canada’s History of Gun Violence and School Shootings
Canada has stricter gun-control laws than its neighbour to the south, with bans on certain firearms and licensing requirements for owners.
Despite this, mass shootings have occurred in recent years, prompting ongoing debate over enforcement and public safety.
The Tumbler Ridge attack is among the deadliest school shootings in Canadian history, second only to the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre in Montreal, where 14 female students were killed.
Investigation and Unanswered Questions
RCMP officials said investigators have identified the shooter but declined to release her name due to privacy laws and the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Police also have not yet confirmed the shooter’s connection to the victims or the motive behind the rampage.
Authorities are expected to share further findings as forensic work and interviews continue.
Community support services are being mobilized to help survivors, families, and first responders cope with the aftermath.
Voices From the Community
Residents described a scene of disbelief and sorrow after news spread through the small town.
One student told media how classmates and teachers worked together to find safety by barricading doors with furniture during the lockdown.
Family members of victims are being cared for by local officials and counsellors, as the sense of loss reverberates across the region.
Broader Reactions and Calls for Action
National politicians have expressed grief and solidarity, with calls for unity and reflection in the face of such violence.
Some public figures also renewed discussion about how to address gun violence and prevent similar events in the future, although policy responses and next steps remain under consideration.
