Shooting Erupts at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School
Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia — A devastating shooting unfolded at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School Tuesday afternoon, killing multiple people and injuring others in one of Canada’s deadliest school attacks in decades.
According to local police and emergency officials, the violence began in the early afternoon when an active shooter opened fire at the small town school.
Multiple Fatalities and Injuries Reported
Initial reports from law enforcement confirm that nine civilians died as a result of the shooting, and dozens were injured. Victims include students and staff members inside the school when the attack took place.
In addition to the nine victims, the suspected shooter was found dead inside the school from an apparent self-inflicted injury after police secured the scene. Police say there appears to be no ongoing threat to the public.
Authorities Issue Emergency Alert to Residents
Shortly after the first shots were fired, authorities sent an emergency alert to phones across the region saying there was an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The alert described the suspect and urged residents to shelter in place until the situation was resolved.
As police cleared the site and confirmed the suspect was deceased, the warning was lifted later in the evening.
Evacuation and Response Efforts
Students and staff were quickly evacuated from the school by first responders. Emergency medical teams treated the injured on scene and transported the most serious cases to hospitals in nearby cities.
Local hospitals activated mass casualty protocols, and additional medical crews were brought in to handle the influx of patients.
Suspect Identified, Motive Unknown
Police have confirmed the suspected shooter was found dead from what appears to be a self-inflicted wound. At this time, law enforcement has not identified the suspect publicly and has given no clear motive for the attack. Authorities say the investigation remains active and that additional details will be released as they are confirmed.
Officials also say they do not believe there is any additional threat to the community.
Support and Condolences Flow in
Messages of shock and sympathy have come from political and community leaders across Canada. Officials say they are working with local authorities to support families, first responders, and survivors impacted by the tragedy.
Flags are being lowered in many public buildings as a mark of respect for those who were killed or affected.
School District and Community Reaction
The Peace River South School District announced that schools in the area will remain closed for the rest of the week while students, staff, and families recover from the traumatic event.
Counsellors and crisis support teams are being deployed to help students and residents cope with the impact of the shooting.
Investigation Underway
RCMP and provincial police investigators are combing evidence from the scene, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing surveillance in and around the school as part of a wide-ranging criminal investigation.
Authorities have asked community members with any photos or video from the area on Tuesday afternoon to contact investigators as they work to piece together the sequence of events.
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