Canadian authorities say nine people have been killed in a mass shooting that struck a secondary school and a nearby home in the rural community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia.
Police confirmed that 25 others were injured. The suspected attacker was also found dead at the scene.
The incident is being described as one of the deadliest shootings in Canada’s history.
Timeline of the Attack
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said they received reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at approximately 13:20 local time on Tuesday (20:20 GMT).
Officers were dispatched immediately, and an emergency alert was issued for residents in the area.
Authorities instructed people to shelter in place, lock doors and avoid leaving homes or businesses. A “hold and secure” lockdown was implemented at both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School.
British Columbia’s Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Nina Krieger, said officers arrived at the school within two minutes of the initial call — a response she said likely prevented further loss of life.
Tumbler Ridge has a population of roughly 2,400 people, and the secondary school serves about 160 students in Grades 7 through 12.
Victims and Injuries
In a later update, the RCMP confirmed that six victims were found deceased inside the school, in addition to the suspect.
Two critically injured individuals were airlifted to hospital, and a third died while being transported for treatment.
Around 25 others were assessed for non-life-threatening injuries at a local medical centre.
Investigators also identified a second location linked to the attack. Two additional victims were found dead inside a nearby residence.
Police continue to search properties in the area to ensure no additional victims are connected to the incident.
Authorities have not yet released the names or ages of those killed.
Suspect Identified but Details Withheld
Law enforcement officials confirmed they know the identity of the suspect but have not publicly disclosed further information.
The suspect was discovered inside the school with what authorities described as a self-inflicted injury.
At a press conference, RCMP North District Commander Chief Supt Ken Floyd confirmed the suspect matched the description previously shared in a public alert, which described a female individual wearing a dress with brown hair. Officials have not released the suspect’s name or confirmed further details.
Investigators are examining possible motives and any connections between the suspect and the school.
Survivor Describes Chaos Inside Classroom
Grade 12 student Darian Quist described hearing a lockdown alarm shortly after arriving at class around 13:30 local time.
He said students initially closed their doors, but soon realized the situation was serious as photos began circulating on their phones.
“We got tables and barricaded the doors,” he said, explaining that students remained inside for more than two hours until officers escorted them out safely.
His mother, Shelley Quist, said she heard police breaking down her son’s classroom door before students were evacuated.
The family was reunited at a nearby community centre.
Community in Shock
Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka told media outlets that the town is close-knit and that he likely knew every victim personally.
“We are a small community. I don’t call them residents — I call them family,” he said.
Town councillor Chris Norbury described the shooting as deeply traumatic for a place where residents typically do not even lock their doors.
“This is an incredibly safe community. We know each other. We know the victims,” he said.
British Columbia Premier David Eby called the event “a devastating and unimaginable tragedy.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has suspended a planned trip to Germany in response to the attack.
Location of the Incident
Tumbler Ridge is located about 670 kilometres northeast of Vancouver in northeastern British Columbia. The town is known for its coal mining industry and fossil discoveries, often marketing itself as a destination for dinosaur enthusiasts and nature tourism.