Multiple victims were reported in a shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia on Tuesday afternoon, according to RCMP. An emergency alert was issued for an active shooter, and police later confirmed six victims were found deceased, with two airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries and a third dying en route.
Shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School
RCMP in Tumbler Ridge issued an emergency alert following reports of a shooting at the school. Upon entering the school, officers discovered six deceased victims. The individual believed to be the shooter was also found deceased, appearing to have died by self-inflicted injury.
Two victims were airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries. A third victim died while being transported to a medical facility. Approximately 25 others are being assessed for non-life-threatening injuries at the local medical centre.
The active shooter alert was lifted at 5:46 p.m. PT. The suspect was initially described as a female in a dress with brown hair, but police later stated the original suspect is believed to have been located deceased.
“Work continues to determine whether a second suspect was involved and the total number of victims involved,” RCMP said.
School District 59 confirmed a lockdown and secure and hold at both Tumbler Ridge Secondary and Tumbler Ridge Elementary schools.
Tumbler Ridge Elementary School confirmed students could be released to their parents or guardians just after 5 p.m. PT.
BC Emergency Health Services and Alberta-based STARS Air Ambulance responded to the scene, providing support and airlifting critically injured patients.
The District of Tumbler Ridge issued a statement expressing their distress and support for those affected, stating that local emergency services and additional support are available.
“In the days ahead, we know this will be difficult for many to process,” the statement read. “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.”
Longtime resident Garret Golhof described locking doors and learning his care aid’s granddaughter had been injured in the shooting. He reported still hearing helicopters overhead.
Larry Neufeld, the MLA for Peace River South, stated he is returning to the riding from Victoria and has been in contact with the Solicitor General to ensure provincial resources are available.
“Public safety is the absolute priority. I urge everyone in the area to follow RCMP instructions, remain sheltered, and rely only on official updates,” Neufeld said.
Tumbler Ridge is located in northeastern B.C., south of Chetwynd. Tumbler Ridge Secondary School has 175 students in grades 7 to 12.
-with files from The Canadian Press
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