Atleast 10 people were killed and 25 injured on Tuesday after a shooting at a secondary school in the Canadian town of Tumbler Ridge, according to local media. Police said one suspect is dead but gave few details. They have not released information on the victims, motive, or circumstances. Authorities said updates will be shared after verification.
In a statement, officers confirmed that the incident was ongoing and that several people had been injured.
“As of 1:20 pm, the Tumbler Ridge RCMP are currently on scene of a confirmed active shooter incident at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School,” police said in a news release, as quoted by local media.
Sgt Kris Clark later confirmed in a text message that there were multiple victims. However, authorities stressed that details remained preliminary as officers continued to secure the area and assess the situation.
The suspected shooter was also found dead from what appears to be a selfinflicted injury, police said. Investigators were also working to determine whether a second suspect may have been involved.
Six more people were found dead inside the school, excluding the suspect, police said. Two victims were airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries, while a third died en route to hospital.
Around 25 others were being assessed and treated for injuries at a local medical centre, according to police.
An emergency alert sent to mobile phones in and around Tumbler Ridge described the suspect as “a female in a dress with brown hair.”
Residents were urged to remain indoors and avoid the area.
“Those in the Tumbler Ridge area are asked to stay inside, lock your doors, and refrain from leaving your home or business at this time,” police said. “All others need to avoid the area and follow police directions and restrictions.”
"As part of the ongoing investigation, police have identified a secondary location believed to be connected to the incident, where two additional victims were located deceased in a residence. Officers are conducting further searches of additional homes and properties to determine whether anyone else may be injured or otherwise linked to today’s events." police said.
Local leaders said they were closely monitoring developments and coordinating with provincial authorities. Larry Neufeld, the MLA for Peace River South, said he was returning immediately from Victoria to support residents in his constituency.
Additional officers from neighbouring detachments were deployed to support the local response.
“This was a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation, and the swift cooperation from the school, first responders, and the community played a critical role in our response,” says Superintendent Ken Floyd, North District Commander. “Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted 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.”
