Vancouver [Canada], February 11 (ANI): A shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in rural northeastern British Columbia has left 10 people dead, including the suspect, CBC News reported, marking one of the deadliest incidents in the region’s recent history.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that six people were found dead inside the high school. Another person died en route to the hospital, and two more were discovered at a residence believed to be connected to the incident. The shooter was confirmed dead earlier in the afternoon from what police described as a “self-inflicted injury.”
CBC News reported that two individuals were airlifted to a hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries, while another 25 were being assessed for non-life-threatening injuries at the local medical center.
Police said they do not believe there are any additional suspects or any ongoing risk to the public. Officers are searching other homes and properties in the community to determine whether anyone else may be injured or linked to the incident.
Additional RCMP officers, including members of the Major Crime Unit, are being deployed to assist with the investigation. Authorities are working with the local school district to reunite students with their parents and guardians.
“This was a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation, and the swift cooperation from the school, first responders, and the community played a critical role in our response,” North District Chief Supt. Ken Floyd said in a statement.
“Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this tragic incident. 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,” the statement added.
According to CBC News, the Tumbler Ridge Health Centre was placed on restricted access during the emergency response, with non-urgent visits discouraged. Normal operations are expected to resume Wednesday at 9 a.m. MT.
The incident began when RCMP responded to reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School around 1:20 p.m. local time. An emergency alert described the suspect as a woman wearing a dress with brown hair. Police later confirmed that the description matched the individual found deceased.
Tumbler Ridge is a small community of about 2,400 residents located roughly 660 kilometers northeast of Vancouver. The secondary school has approximately 160 students.
School District 59 initiated a “hold and secure” lockdown at both the secondary and elementary schools.
CBC News quoted Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka as saying he was sheltering in place and would provide updates as more information becomes available.
RCMP Staff Sgt. Kris Clark reiterated that the described suspect was the individual found dead, though authorities have not yet released details regarding the person’s identity or age.
The District of Tumbler Ridge described the event as a “deeply distressing incident” and urged residents to follow official RCMP updates.
“In the days ahead, we know this will be difficult for many to process,” the district stated. “Please check in on one another, lean on available supports, and know that Tumbler Ridge is a strong and caring community. We will get through this together.”
Police said they are investigating the full circumstances surrounding the incident. No further details regarding the motive or the identities of the victims have been released. (ANI)
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