Daijiworld Media Network - Tumbler Ridge
Tumbler Ridge, Feb 11: At least seven people were killed and around 25 others injured on Wednesday following a shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in the Canadian town of Tumbler Ridge, according to local media reports.
Police said one suspect was found dead, believed to have died from a self-inflicted injury, but added that details regarding the victims, motive and circumstances of the incident were still being verified. Authorities said further updates would be shared once information was confirmed.
In a statement, police confirmed that the situation was ongoing and that multiple people had been injured. “As of 1:20 pm, the Tumbler Ridge RCMP are currently on scene of a confirmed active shooter incident at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School,” police said in a news release quoted by local media.
Sgt Kris Clark later confirmed in a text message that there were multiple victims, while stressing that information remained preliminary as officers continued to secure the area and assess the situation. Investigators were also working to determine whether a second suspect may have been involved.
Police said six people, excluding the suspect, were found dead inside the school. Two victims were airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries, while a third victim died while being transported to hospital.
Around 25 others were being assessed and treated for injuries at a local medical centre, police said.
An emergency alert sent to mobile phones in and around Tumbler Ridge described the suspect as “a female in a dress with brown hair.” Residents were urged to remain indoors and avoid the area.
“Those in the Tumbler Ridge area are asked to stay inside, lock your doors, and refrain from leaving your home or business at this time,” police said, adding that others should avoid the area and follow police directions.
Local leaders said they were closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with provincial authorities. Larry Neufeld, the MLA for Peace River South, said he was returning immediately from Victoria to support residents in his constituency.
Additional police officers from neighbouring detachments were deployed to assist with the response.