Nine killed in Canada shooting at school and residence

A devastating mass shooting unfolded in Tumbler Ridge, a picturesque mountain valley community nestled within British Columbia’s Rockies. On Tuesday, an active shooter wreaked havoc at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School before committing suicide, leaving nine people dead—seven were students shot on school grounds—and 27 injured, including two with life-threatening injuries.

The tragedy began when police received an alert around noon, indicating an active shooter situation at the secondary school. As they searched the premises, six victims found in classrooms and one who died en route to hospital revealed the full extent of the carnage that unfolded inside the building. Police also discovered two deceased individuals at a residence, which they suspected was linked to the shooting incident.

In addition to the dead and wounded, Darian Quist, a Tumbler Ridge student, recounted his harrowing experience: “Initially, I thought it might be some kind of drill in my mechanics class, but as more disturbing pictures about the carnage at the school started circulating, I realized something was terribly wrong. I stayed locked down for over two hours before police stormed into the school, ordering everyone to raise their hands.”

Darian’s mother, Shelley Quist, described her emotions upon reconnecting with her son: “He’s not going to be out of my sight for a while now,” she told CBC.

Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his profound sadness at the incident. He said, “I am devastated by this horrific act of violence. My prayers and deepest condolences are extended to those who have lost loved ones.”

In response, British Columbia Premier David Eby called it an “unimaginable” event.

While mass shootings in Canada are rare, this incident represents a shocking escalation in recent days with the death toll exceeding expectations. A vehicle attack that targeted a Filipino cultural festival in Vancouver killed 11 people earlier this year, highlighting how such events can occur anywhere in the country.

RCMP Commander Ken Floyd described it as “a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation,” noting they were searching additional homes and properties to identify any connections within the community.

The small town of Tumbler Ridge, with an approximate population of 2,400 residents, was overwhelmed by this tragedy. The municipality issued a statement saying, “We are devastated by the loss of life and deeply impacted on families, students, staff, and our entire community.”

Federal Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre characterized it as “a senseless act of violence.”