TUMBLER RIDGE, British Columbia — A tight-knit community in northeastern British Columbia is reeling after a mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School left multiple people dead and dozens injured, marking one of Canada’s deadliest school tragedies in decades.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that officers responded to reports of gunfire at the school on Tuesday.
Authorities said the suspect is deceased and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. However, investigators have not yet released the suspect’s name, citing privacy laws and the active nature of the investigation.
Among the injured is 12-year-old Maya Edmonds, who was shot in the head and neck and remains in critical condition, according to her mother, Cia Edmonds.
In a public message, Cia Edmonds said her daughter is “fighting for her life” as doctors work to repair the damage caused by the gunshot wounds.
Emergency crews transported victims to nearby hospitals, and some of the most seriously wounded were airlifted to larger medical centers.
Health officials reported that several patients remain in critical condition.
RCMP officers have established a perimeter around Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and are continuing to process the scene.
Investigators are interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and working to determine the timeline of events and a possible motive.
In a brief statement, the RCMP said it understands the public’s desire for information but emphasized that verified details will be released once confirmed.
Authorities urged residents not to rely on unverified social media posts, noting that misinformation can complicate ongoing investigations.
School district officials announced that counseling services will be made available to students, staff, and families affected by the tragedy.
Community members gathered Tuesday evening for a vigil honoring the victims, many of whom have not yet been publicly identified pending notification of next of kin.
Federal and provincial leaders expressed condolences to the families and pledged support for the community.
Flags at several government buildings in British Columbia were lowered to half-staff in remembrance of those who lost their lives.
As investigators continue their work, officials said further updates will be provided in the coming days.
