At least nine people were killed in connection with a shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia, according to officials, who added that the suspect was also found dead.
Two victims were taken to a hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries, police said, and a third victim died while being transported to the hospital.
During the investigation, police identified a secondary location believed to be related to the incident, where two additional victims were found dead inside a residence.
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An active shooter was confirmed at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia.
About 25 others with non-life-threatening injuries were taken to the local medical center for evaluation, police said.
“This was a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation, and the rapid collaboration of the school, first responders and the community played a critical role in our response,” North District Superintendent Ken Floyd said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones and everyone affected by this tragic incident. This has been an incredibly difficult and emotional day for our community, and we are grateful for the cooperation shown as officers continue their work to advance the investigation.”
All other students and staff were safely evacuated from the school, police said.
Police do not believe there are any more suspects or that there is an ongoing threat to the public.
The identity of the suspected shooter has not been released and police have not identified a possible motive. Officials did not say whether the shooter had any connection to the school.
Floyd confirmed that the shooter was the same person described in a police alert earlier in the day as a “woman in a dress with brown hair.”
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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was devastated by the horrific shootings.
“My prayers and deepest condolences go out to the families and friends who have lost loved ones to these horrific acts of violence. I join Canadians in mourning with those whose lives have been irreversibly changed today, and in gratitude for the courage and selflessness of the first responders who risked their lives to protect their fellow citizens. Our ability to come together in a crisis is the best of our country – our empathy, our unity and our compassion for each other,” he wrote on X.
The RCMP initially confirmed an active shooter incident at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia on Tuesday, in which at least one suspect was found dead.
Additional police resources were deployed to the area from neighboring detachments, together with the North District Emergency Response Team.
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In one message The Peace River South School District said on its website that it was “aware of a lockdown and security at Tumbler Ridge Secondary and Tumbler Ridge Elementary schools.”
“We ask people for patience as we work with the RCMP,” school officials wrote.
Larry Neufeld, who represents Peace River South in the British Columbia Legislative Assembly, released a message statement on social media noted that he was on his way to the scene.
“I am aware of the active shooter situation currently unfolding in Tumbler Ridge, and my thoughts are with the residents as this situation continues to develop,” Neufeld wrote. “I have been in direct contact with the Solicitor General to receive updates and ensure that all necessary provincial resources are made available to support local law enforcement and emergency responders.
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“Public safety is the absolute priority. I urge everyone in the area to follow RCMP instructions, remain sheltered and rely only on official updates,” he continued. “I am leaving Victoria immediately to return to my riding to be on the ground and available to support the community in any way I can. I will remain closely involved as this situation develops.”
This is a development story. Check back later for updates.
