A deadly shooting at a school in the remote Canadian town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, has left eight people dead, including the alleged gunman, triggering a massive emergency response and lockdown across the community.
Canadian authorities confirmed on Tuesday that the suspected shooter was discovered dead at the scene with injuries believed to be self-inflicted. Investigators are still examining whether the attack involved more than one person, as officials have not ruled out the possibility of an additional suspect.
The incident sent shockwaves through Tumbler Ridge, a town of roughly 2,400 residents located in northeastern British Columbia, more than 1,000 kilometres north of Vancouver and close to the Alberta border. Residents were instructed to remain indoors while police reinforcements and medical teams rushed in from surrounding regions.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said dozens of people were injured in the attack, though the exact number and severity of injuries have not yet been made public. Authorities described the situation as active and evolving during the initial response.
As a precautionary measure, the Peace River South School District placed both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School under strict “secure and hold” protocols. The secondary school serves approximately 175 students from Grades 7 to 12.
Peace River South MLA Larry Neufeld confirmed that an extensive deployment of emergency resources—including RCMP units and ambulance services—was sent to the town. Speaking to reporters, he said officials were withholding further details to avoid compromising the safety of the ongoing operation.
Neufeld urged residents to follow police instructions and remain in secure locations until authorities declare the area safe.
