The following story may be disserting for some readers.
Tumbler Ridge is reeling today, in the aftermath of a school shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School that left 9 people dead, including the suspected shooter, and had injured 25 others, some seriously.
The Tumbler Ridge RCMP confirmed they received reports of an active shooter at 1:20pm on Tuesday, February 10th, and immediately issued a Public Alert as they responded to the scene. The school, and surrounding community, had been placed on lockdown as RCMP secured the building, identified the threat and began an evacuation.
Authorities confirmed, the suspected shooter was found dead with what appeared to be self-inflicted wounds.
six victims had been found inside the school itself, and two others in a nearby residence that RCMP believe to be connected. A total of 25 people had been injured, some transported to hospital in serious condition.
The investigation remains ongoing today with the RCMP Major crime unit taking the lead, assisted by additional RCMP resources that continue to be deployed into the community. Officers had said they canvassed the area to determine if anyone else may have been injured or linked to the mass shooting. So far, RCMP say they are not in a position to understand a possible motive.
The BC RCMP’s North District Commander, Superintendent Ken Floyd, said the incident was a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation, and he was thankful for the swift cooperation from the school, first responders, and the community. Superintendent Floyd adds, the RCMP’s thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted by the tragic incident.
Responding to the tragedy, Prime Minister Mark Carney has cancelled his planned trips abroad and offered his condolences and prayers to those in Tumbler Ridge following the shootings.
The Prime Minister said he’s devastated by the horrific shootings, and joins Canadians today in grieving the lives lost, and those irreversibly changed by the violence. He adds, he’s connected with Primer David Eby to ensure Tumbler Ridge is fully supported and has tasked Minister of Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree, with coordinating the federal response.
The Prime Minister’s message ends with a declaration; “The Government of Canada stands with all British Columbians as they confront this horrible tragedy.”
Flags on federal buildings nationwide will be lowered to half-mast for seven days in honor of the victims. Many world leaders, including King Charles, as well as Canadian politicians, sport groups, municipalities, and even Olympic athletes have shared messages of support and solidarity.
CFNR News will have more details as they are released and can be confirmed.
This article has been updated to clarify that nine people had died, including the suspected shooter. Originally, It was shared that one victim had passed while in transit to hospital, but RCMP have confirmed this is not the case.
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