The violence unfolded Tuesday afternoon at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where police responded to reports of an active shooter around 1:20 p.m.
local time. Officers arriving at the scene discovered multiple victims inside the school building, along with an individual believed to be responsible for the attack. The suspect was found deceased from what authorities described as an apparent self-inflicted injury.
Officials have confirmed that several of the victims were located inside the school, while two others were later discovered at a nearby residence believed to be connected to the incident. Investigators have not yet clarified the relationship between the school and the home.
It is not immediately clear whether the victims at the school were students, staff members, or a combination of both. Authorities have not released names or ages as families are being notified.
Injuries and Emergency Response
In addition to the fatalities, police reported that two individuals were airlifted to hospital with serious injuries, and another victim died while being transported for medical care. Around 25 others sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at a local medical facility.
Superintendent Ken Floyd of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) described the situation as fast-moving and highly complex. He commended first responders, school officials, and community members for their cooperation during the emergency response.
“All remaining students and staff were safely evacuated,” police confirmed, adding that there is no ongoing threat to the public and no indication of additional suspects.
Schools Closed, Investigation Continues
The Peace River South School District announced that both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School will remain closed for the rest of the week. Counseling and support services are being arranged for students, staff, and families affected by the tragedy.
Provincial officials said additional emergency resources were dispatched from neighboring areas to assist local law enforcement. Community leaders urged residents to rely on official updates and follow police guidance.
Investigators are now working to determine the motive behind the attack and to establish how the school and residential locations are connected.
A Community Grieves
The shooting has deeply shaken the remote town of Tumbler Ridge, with leaders describing it as one of the most devastating incidents in the province’s recent history. Mental health professionals are being deployed to provide support as families and residents begin to process the tragedy.
Authorities say more details will be released as the investigation progresses.
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