Nine Killed In British Columbia School Shooting, Suspect Found Dead

by Stefan J. Bos, Worthy News Chief International Correspondent

VICTORIA, CANADA (Worthy News) – Nine people were killed Tuesday in a mass shooting in the western Canadian province of British Columbia, and at least 27 others were injured, authorities confirmed late Tuesday, marking one of the deadliest attacks in Canada in recent years.

The violence unfolded in the small, remote mountain community of Tumbler Ridge — a town of roughly 2,400 residents located about 1,100 kilometers (680 miles) northeast of Vancouver — where police responded to reports of an active shooter Tuesday afternoon local time.

Six victims were found fatally shot inside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, while a seventh person died while being transported to hospital, police said. Two additional victims were discovered at a nearby residence believed to be connected to the same incident.

The suspected shooter, described by police as a woman with brown hair wearing a dress, was found dead inside the school from what appeared to be a self-inflicted injury. Authorities have not released her name pending notification of family members.

Police Chief Ken Floyd told a press conference that two people were airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries, while about 25 others were treated at a local medical center. “The examinations of the injured are still ongoing,” Floyd said. “I do not yet have information on whether the death toll could rise.”

SEARCHING HOMES, URGING PRAYERS

Investigators continued searchinghomes and properties late Tuesday as part of the ongoing probe. The identities and ages of the victims have not yet been released.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed deep sorrow over the shootings, calling the attack “devastating” and offering “prayers and deepest condolences” to families and friends affected by the violence.

He said federal officials are in close contact with provincial authorities to support the response.

British Columbia Premier David Eby described the events as an “unimaginable tragedy” and urged residents to support one another.

Eby highlighted the rapid response of police officers, who arrived at the scene within minutes of the first emergency call.

TIGHT-KNIT COMMUNITY DEVASTATED

Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka said the shooting has shaken the tight-knit community and stressed the emotional toll on residents who “know every victim.”

Royal Canadian Mounted Police Superintendent Ken Floyd said investigators have identified the suspected shooter but declined to release details, citing privacy and investigatory concerns.

Schools in Tumbler Ridge were placed on lockdown and later evacuated safely. However ,the community’s elementary and secondary schools are expected to remain closed for the rest of the week as locals deal with the aftermath of the tragedy.

Among survivors was a student at the school who told local media he hid in a classroom closet with classmates as police moved through the building, illustrating the fear and chaos experienced by those inside when the shooting began.

Mass shootings are uncommon in Canada, which has stricter gun laws than its southern neighbor. Tuesday’s attack is among the deadliest in recent Canadian history and the second-deadliest school shooting, after the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre in Montréal, which claimed 14 lives.

Authorities not yet provided a motive for the latest tragedy, saying the investigation is ongoing.

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