Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia — A quiet mountain community in northern British Columbia was thrust into horror after a deadly school shooting left at least 10 people dead — including the suspected female gunman — and 25 others injured in one of Canada’s most devastating recent acts of violence.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) rushed to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time following urgent reports of an active shooter. Witness descriptions circulated of a woman with brown hair wearing a dress. Officers arriving on scene discovered multiple victims inside the school; six people were found dead within the building, while a seventh victim died while being transported to hospital. Authorities later located two additional victims at a nearby residence believed to be connected to the attack.
Police say the suspect was found dead at the scene from what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Her identity has not yet been released. Investigators are still working to determine a motive and whether she had any connection to the school or the victims. Officers have also been searching nearby properties for potential evidence or accomplices, though no second suspect has been confirmed.
Two survivors remain in critical condition after being airlifted to larger medical facilities, while 25 others were treated for injuries described as non-life-threatening at a local health center. Students and staff were safely evacuated as heavily armed officers secured the campus and surrounding area.
RCMP North District Commander Supt. Ken Floyd described the situation as “rapidly evolving and dynamic,” noting that forensic teams are working through multiple scenes. Authorities say there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The school will remain closed for the rest of the week as grief counselors and support teams arrive to assist students, families, and staff. British Columbia Premier David Eby called the attack an “unimaginable tragedy” for the small community of roughly 2,500 residents. Local officials say the town is reeling as families mourn and seek answers.
With motives still unclear and victim details withheld pending notifications, the shock of the violence continues to ripple across Canada, where school shootings remain rare but deeply traumatic events.
(With agency inputs)
