A small northern Canadian community was rocked Wednesday afternoon by a devastating mass shooting that left at least nine people dead and dozens more wounded, authorities confirmed.
Police say the violence began around 1:20 p.m. local time at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, a public high school in the remote town of roughly 2,400 residents. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire erupt on campus, prompting an immediate lockdown and frantic rush to shelter students and staff.
Officers responding to the scene soon discovered additional victims at a nearby residence, indicating the attack spanned multiple locations before it came to an end.
Casualties and Injuries
By early evening, emergency services had confirmed that nine people — including students and adults — were killed. Dozens more were treated for injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to shock and minor trauma. At least two victims were described by health officials as critically injured and were airlifted to larger hospitals for treatment.
Suspect Found Dead
Police later located the suspected shooter inside the school. The individual, believed to be female, was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted wound, according to law enforcement sources. No motive has been publicly disclosed.
Investigators have not yet released the suspect’s identity, citing the early stage of the inquiry and ongoing work to notify families.
Community in Shock
Tumbler Ridge, known for its quiet streets and close-knit community, was left reeling. Parents hurried to reunification centers after receiving alerts that the school was in lockdown. Teachers and students described scenes of panic and fear as police moved methodically through the building to secure rooms and evacuate occupants.
Local officials, including leaders from the provincial government in Victoria and federal representatives in Ottawa, condemned the attack and expressed condolences to victims’ families. Flags across British Columbia were ordered flown at half-mast as vigils and prayer services were organized for the evening.
Rare and Deadly Incident
Canada’s strict firearms regulations mean that mass shootings are comparatively rare, particularly in rural areas. Yet this attack stands among the deadliest in recent Canadian history, renewing debate about gun violence prevention and school safety nationwide.
What’s Next
As the community mourns, investigators continue to piece together the timeline of Wednesday’s events. Police have implored anyone with information — including video or eyewitness accounts — to come forward. Counseling and support services are being made available to students, families, and first responders affected by the tragedy.
Officials have promised more details as they become available.
