Ten dead after high school shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia

Ten people, including the suspected shooter, were killed during a mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia on 10 February, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

The incident, described by police as an "active shooter situation," left several others injured.

The RCMP reported that six individuals were found deceased inside the school premises, while another person died en route to hospital.

Two additional victims were discovered at a nearby home, which investigators believe is linked to the school shooting.

The individual suspected of carrying out the attack was also found dead, reportedly from a self-inflicted wound.

While Canadian media outlets have reported the suspect was female, RCMP officials declined to confirm or provide any details regarding the identity during a press briefing.

Over two dozen injured, many hospitalised

In its public statement, the RCMP confirmed that two victims had been airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries. Approximately 25 others were being treated at a local medical centre for non-life-threatening wounds.

“All remaining students and staff were safely evacuated,” the RCMP added. Efforts to reunite families are ongoing, in coordination with the school district.

Ken Floyd, RCMP Northern District Commander, said the incident had been a “rapidly evolving and dynamic situation” and acknowledged the emotional impact on the small community.

“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,” Floyd said.

Police search for further links, national leaders respond

Police are continuing to investigate the incident and have been searching additional homes and properties in the Tumbler Ridge area for any further connections to the shooting.

Tumbler Ridge, located in the foothills of the British Columbia Rocky Mountains, is a remote township with fewer than 3,000 residents. It lies over 1,100 km north of Vancouver.

British Columbia Premier David Eby issued a statement calling the shooting an “unimaginable tragedy,” adding that the provincial government would provide full support to the affected community.

“Our hearts are in Tumbler Ridge tonight with the families of those who have lost loved ones,” Eby said.

On 11 February, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed condolences, calling the event a “horrific shooting.”

“I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed irreversibly today,” Carney said via social media.

“Our ability to come together in crisis is the best of our country — our empathy, our unity, and our compassion for each other.”

National debate on gun laws reignited

The incident has renewed attention on gun control laws in Canada. Despite having stricter firearm regulations compared to the United States, Canada has witnessed several mass shootings in recent years.

In 2022, former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau introduced a “freeze” on handgun sales and purchases, among other legislative measures, aiming to reduce gun-related violence nationwide.

This latest event is likely to prompt further debate regarding the adequacy and enforcement of current laws, and whether additional restrictions are required.