British Columbia’s serene Tumbler Ridge was shattered by a horrific school shooting on Tuesday, resulting in 10 fatalities including the perpetrator. This marks one of the deadliest incidents in recent Canadian history.
According to RCMP reports, the attack occurred at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where six victims lay lifeless inside the building. A seventh died during transport to medical facilities. The shooter ended his own life, closing the chapter on immediate threats, though an active shooter alert was only recently lifted.
Two more bodies were recovered from a home believed tied to the rampage, expanding the scope of the tragedy. Wounded survivors have been hospitalized, their conditions undisclosed as treatment continues.
MLA Larry Muffeld, voice of the region, shared his heartbreak online: ‘Watching the situation closely after this tragic event at the secondary school.’ He commended the professional handling by emergency teams amid chaos.
In a community bound by close ties, the loss reverberates deeply. Muffeld extended prayers and offered personal support for mental health needs arising from the trauma. He stressed giving investigators space to piece together the puzzle without speculation.
Police probe into the gunman’s background and motivations is ongoing, with the public awaiting clarity. This event reignites urgent conversations on preventing such violence in educational settings, far from the urban centers typically associated with mass shootings.
Tumbler Ridge, known for its natural beauty, now grapples with unimaginable sorrow, as families and friends await answers and justice.