An 18-year-old girl was identified as the person who fatally shot six people at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and two other people at a private residence Tuesday in one of Canada’s deadliest mass shootings in history.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in a press conference Wednesday afternoon that Jesse Van Rootselaar killed her 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old stepbrother at the private residence before opening fire at the school.
Six people were killed at the high school – a 39-year-old female educator, three 12-year-old female students, a 12-year-old male student and a 13-year-old male student. RCMP have not publicly identified the names of the victims yet.
More than 25 people were injured in the mass shooting, two of whom were airlifted to hospitals and are in critical condition.
Students and faculty at the high school, located in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, spent hours barricaded inside classrooms, offices and other corners of the school after the principal directed everyone to lock their doors.
Investigators have not identified a motive for the shooting, but said that police had responded to calls at the residence multiple times over the last several years due to “concerns” about the suspect’s “mental health.”
Key Points
- Suspected shooter identified as Jesse Van Rootselaar
- Five students, aged 12-13, were killed
- Royal Family is 'profoundly shocked and saddened' by shooting
- Carney thanks world leaders for compassion - no mention of United States though
- Mapped: Where is Tumbler Ridge?
- Shooter fatally shot mother and younger sibling
Motive is still unclear
00:00 , Ariana BaioWhat compelled the 18-year-old suspect to open fire in her private residence and a local high school is still unclear to authorities.
Investigators said Wednesday afternoon that they are still looking at a motive but said that the suspect was not currently attending school at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.
It’s unclear if the suspect’s family had any connection to the school.
British Columbia will have day of mourning Thursday
23:30 , Ariana BaioThursday will be a day of mourning for the Canadian province of British Columbia after the tragic shooting that left eight people dead.
Members of the legislature will hear a speech dedicated to the people of Tumbler Ridge.
In Photos: Tumbler Ridge reels from devastating mass shooting
23:00 , Independent Staff
Young female altered police to home shooting
22:30 , Ariana BaioAuthorities said a young female resident living in the home where the shooter killed their mother and younger stepbrother went to a neighbor’s house to call police.
McDonald said police received a call from the home around 2:47 p.m. local time – after receiving an alert from the school of an active shooter.
Watch: Canada school shooting leaves nine dead as female suspect is identified
22:00 , Independent VideoAuthorities recovered a long gun and modified handgun
21:30 , Ariana BaioTwo firearms were recovered from the scene – a long gun and a modified handgun.
It is unclear who the firearms were registered to. While the suspect had a gun license that expired in 2024, she did not have any firearms registered to her.
Authorities said the home where the suspect lived had a history of secured firearms.
Son of pastor is among the victims
21:00 , Ariana BaioThe 12-year-old son of Pastor Abel Mwansa and Bwalya Chisanga is among the children who were fatally shot in a mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School on Tuesday.
The boy was identified as Abel Mwsana Jr. in a Facebook post by Burning Bush Ministries, City of Grace Chapel.
“The loss has brought profound grief to the family, the church, and all who knew and loved him.”
Police revise death toll numbers to nine
20:45 , Ariana BaioPolice in Canada said Wednesday afternoon nine people, including the shooter, had died in the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting – revising earlier numbers that claimed 10 people died.
Officials said in a press conference that an individual who was critically injured was believed to have died on the way to the hospital. However, that individual is still alive and in critical condition.
Five students, aged 12-13, were killed
20:22 , Ariana BaioCanadian officials said that a total of five students were killed in Tuesday’s shooting, ranging from 12 to 13 years old.
Three 12-year-old female students were among those fatally shot, as well as a 12-year-old male.
Another male student, 13 years old, was also killed.
Shooter fatally shot mother and younger sibling
20:04 , Ariana BaioPolice said the adult woman and male youth who were found deceased at the private residence were identified as the mother and brother or stepbrother of the suspected shooter.
Suspected shooter identified as Jesse Van Rootselaar
20:00 , Ariana BaioThe Royal Canadian Mounted Police identified 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar as the suspected shooter.
Police said they had visited the home of the suspected shooter in the past due to “mental health issues.”
The suspected shooter is believed to have fatally shot her mother and younger male sibling at her home before opening fire at the school, police said.
Dwayne McDonald, the deputy commissioner for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in British Columbia, said that the suspect was born biologically male but had begun transitioning to a woman approximately six years ago.
Carney cancels trip to Munich
19:30 , Ariana BaioPrime Minister Mark Carney has canceled a planned overseas trip to Munich, Germany, for the Munich Security Conference this week after the deadly mass shooting.
"The prime minister is remaining in the National Capital Region at this time, and we can confirm that previously announced travel for the coming days has been cancelled," the Prime Minister's Office said in a statement.
In his place, the defence minister, foreign affairs minister and AI minister will travel to Germany.
Watch: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney becomes emotional discussing Tumbler Ridge deadly shooting
19:00 , Independent VideoTumbler Ridge Secondary School offers mental health services for families
18:30 , Ariana BaioMembers of the Tumbler Ridge community who are processing the devastating shooting that rattled the small town are being invited to the Tumbler Ridge Community Center, where mental health professionals will be available.
On the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School website, administrators have provided several resources to parents to help their children process the traumatic event.
“There is no timeline for how each of us will process this grief and immense loss, both individually and as a community. While words often feel inadequate in the face of such loss, coming together can help reduce isolation and remind us that we are not alone,” the message from the school reads.
Schools are closed for the rest of the week.
Family of 12-year-old girl recovering from gunshot says she 'made it through the night'
18:00 , Ariana BaioThe family of a 12-year-old girl who was critically injured in a mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School said she underwent surgery to stop bleeding and “made it through the night,” on a GoFundMe page.
The 12-year-old, named Maya, was taken to a children’s hospital in Vancouver to receive treatment for a gunshot injury that she sustained, her mother, Cia, said in a Facebook post Tuesday. A GoFundMe was set up by Cia’s cousin to assist the family in medical treatment payments.
In an update Wednesday afternoon, Krysta Hunt thanked donors for contributing to the medical fund and said Maya underwent surgery to help stop bleeding as a first step toward recovery.
“We are still in a very risky state, and care and long term recovery is unknown,” Hunt wrote.
The GoFundMe, which has yet to be verified by the organization, raised more than $40,000 as of Wednesday afternoon.
US Ambassador to Canada says 'hearts and prayers' are with community
17:30 , Ariana BaioPete Hoekstra, the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, said “hearts and prayers” are with Tumbler Ridge and all of British Columbia after a deadly mass shooting.
“Our hearts and prayers are with the community of Tumbler Ridge and all of British Columbia today. My personal prayer is that in these difficult times, they find the peace and comfort that only He can provide,” Hoekstra said Wednesday morning.
Our hearts and prayers are with the community of Tumbler Ridge and all of British Columbia today. My personal prayer is that in these difficult times, they find the peace and comfort that only He can provide.
— Ambassador Pete Hoekstra (@USAmbCanada) February 11, 2026
Premiers offer condolences
17:00 , Ariana BaioAlberta Premier Danielle Smith: “I can only imagine the absolute devastation that the students, families, staff, and entire community must be feeling right now… To the families grieving, the friends and classmates who are also impacted, and the first responders on the ground – know that Alberta and the whole of Canada is thinking of you and our hearts go out to you and your community.”
Scott Moe, the Premier of Saskatchewan: “Horrifying news from Tumbler Ridge, B.C. Our prayers are with the families of the victims, those injured, and everyone in the community.”
Wab Kinew, the Premier of Manitoba: “Our thoughts are with the people of Tumbler Ridge... Schools should always be places of safety and care. Manitoba stands with our friends and relatives in British Columbia as they grieve this heartbreaking loss.”
Premier of New Brunswick Susan Holt: “My heart breaks for the families, friends, and entire community of Tumbler Ridge... During times like these, we come together with compassion to support one another, and ensure that every family affected feels the strength of our care and unity.
Tony Wakeham, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador: “On behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, I extend our sincerest condolences to the families, friends, students, educators, and first responders affected by this senseless act of violence.”
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston: “My thoughts are with the families, survivors, and entire community of Tumbler Ridge, BC, after the horrific attack at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Nova Scotia stands in solidarity with British Columbia during this tragic time.”
Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario: “My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones and everyone who was impacted by the terrible shooting that took place yesterday in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. I’m praying for a full recovery for all those who were injured in the attack. Ontario stands ready to support the people of British Columbia however we can.”
Quebec Premier Francois Legault: “I am deeply saddened by the shooting that occurred in British Columbia. My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and all those affected. Quebec stands in solidarity with British Columbia during this ordeal. Thank you to the first responders for their courage.”
Yukon Premier Currie Dixon: “Heartbreaking. We’re thinking of our friends and neighbours in BC as we grapple with this tragedy.”
RCMP will not publicly identify suspect for now
16:46 , Ariana BaioA spokesperson for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police indicated that they will not publicly identify the suspect who fatally shot nine people “at this time.”
“We are unable to confirm identity publicly at this time,” Staff Sergeant Kris Clark, a senior media relations officer for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, told CNN Wednesday.
Officers previously said they know the identity of the suspected shooter but would not release a name. They have not released further information – such as the shooter’s age or gender. Initially, police reported the suspect was a “female in a dress with brown hair,” but it is unclear whether those details have changed with more information.
Online, several people have floated theories about who the suspected shooter may be. However, no official information has been released.
12-year-old student describes sheltering in gymnasium for hours
16:20 , Ariana BaioTumbler Ridge Secondary School student Quinn Campbell described the terrifying moment she had to shelter in a gymnasium equipment room with older students after shots rang out at the school.
Campbell, 12, told The Globe and Mail that she was in the bathroom when she was told to take cover. She joined roughly 16 other students and a teacher locked the door and hid with the lights off for several hours, until it was safe.
“I was just thinking about all of my friends, if they were okay. Thinking about my family,” Campbell said.
Campbell, who is in Grade 7, said older students were trying to keep her in good spirits as they remained in lockdown.
Schools in Tumbler Ridge closed
16:00 , Ariana BaioOne day after the devastating shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, schools in the remote town will remain closed.
Flags will be flown at half-mast for a week
15:45 , Ariana BaioCarney said he has ordered flags to be flown at half-mast for the next week to mourn the loss of all ten people from the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School shooting.
Carney thanks world leaders for compassion - no mention of United States though
15:30 , Ariana BaioWhile speaking with reporters this morning, Carney said he was thankful to the number of world leaders who reached out to him directly to express condolences for the deadly mass shooting.
"Want to thank and pass on a number of world leaders who reached out directly to me in solidarity and compassion, France, the United Kingdom – his majesty himself, Norway, Finland, India, United Arab Emirates, many others,” Carney said.
Notably missing from the list is Canada’s strongest ally, the United States.
It is unclear if President Donald Trump has spoken with Carney.
The Independent has asked the White House for comment
Royal Family is 'profoundly shocked and saddened' by shooting
15:15 , Ariana BaioIn a statement from the Royal Family, King Charles III said he and Queen Consort Camilla were “profoundly shocked and saddened” to learn of the “dreadful” attack in Tumbler Ridge.
“We can only express our deepest possible sympathy to the families who are grieving the unimaginable loss of their loved ones and those still awaiting news from hospital.”
“In a such a closely connected town, every child’s name will be known and every family will be a neighbour. We can only begin to imagine the appalling shadow that has now descended across Tumbler Ridge and our hearts go out to all those whose lives have been shatered by this senseless act of brutal violence,” King Charles wrote.
A message from The King, following the attack at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia. pic.twitter.com/2RMK0GG0dY
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) February 11, 2026
Prime Minister Carney says nation is mourning with Tumbler Ridge
15:08 , Ariana BaioSpeaking with reporters Wednesday morning, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said the entire nation of Canada was mourning with Tumbler Ridge after the third deadliest mass shooting rocked the small community.
“A very difficult day for the nation. This morning, parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers, in Tumbler Ridge will wake upwithout someone they love,” Carney said.
“The nation mourns with you. Canada stands by you.”
Local pastor extends sympathy to the family of shooter
14:50 , Ariana BaioPastor George Rowe, who works at the Tumbler Ridge Fellowship Church, told CBC News Wednesday that the family of the suspected shooter will need support as well and extended thoughts and prayers to them.
“The family of the person who committed this atrocity will also be going through a very, very difficult time and we need to remember them in our thoughts and prayers as well,” Rowe said.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police have not publicly identified a suspect in the shooting yet.
Mayor of Tumbler Ridge to give update on CBC News
14:46 , Ariana BaioDarryl Krakowka, the mayor of Tumbler Ridge, will appear on CBC News Network soon to provide an update after the devastating shooting.
California Governor says they stand in solidarity with British Columbia
14:30 , Ariana BaioCalifornia Governor Gavin Newsom said Wednesday that the people of his state “stand with our neighbors in Canada in grief and solidarity” after nine people were fatally shot in a school shooting.
“Heartbroken by this horrific school shooting in British Columbia,” Newsom wrote on X.
“No community should endure this kind of violence.”
Police still working to determine motive
14:11 , Alex CroftAccording to Supt Ken Floyd, North District Commander, police have identified the shooter but are still working to determine the motive.
The weapons used by the shooter have also not been revealed yet.
The police have not made the identities of the 9 victims public.
“For privacy reasons and obviously for the conduct of the investigation, we’re not releasing that information at this time,” Floyd told a press conference on Tuesday evening.
He also did not mention if the shooter was connected to the school or the home where the victims were found.
'I've seen them grow up' councillor says of victims
13:45 , Alex CroftA town councillor in Tumbler Ridge whose wife was held in lockdown in Tumbler Ridge school has been speaking to the press.
His wife was among those held in lockdown yesterday, he told The National.
"I've seen them grow up," he said.
"We sang stories together, we read books together... I saw them everywhere. And knowing that I can't see them anymore, that we won't see them anymore, that their family has to live with this incredible loss... is almost unbearable."
He added: "We've always come together, to stand together, to survive and I hope we can fall back on that experience”.
What we know about Canada school shooting suspect after police identify ‘brown-haired female in a dress’
13:19 , Alex CroftAt least nine people have been killed in a school shooting in a picturesque, isolated town in Western Canada.
Reports from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police say that the suspect, initially described as a “female in a dress with brown hair,” has also been found dead after opening fire at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia on Tuesday afternoon.
The school has around 160 to 175 students, according to the district, and is considered the heart of the local community, which itself sits at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Here’s everything we know:
What we know about the Tumbler Ridge school shooting suspect in Canada
Canadian Olympic team is 'heartbroken' by deadly school shooting in British Columbia
12:58 , Alex CroftThe Canadian Olympic Committee said it is “heartbroken” by a school shooting in British Columbia that left at least seven people dead and many others wounded.
Team Canada issued a statement at the Milan Cortina Olympics on Wednesday, the morning after the deadly shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.
“We are heartbroken by the news of the horrific school shooting that occurred in British Columbia. Our thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, those who are injured, and the entire Tumbler Ridge community.
“Team Canada stands with everyone affected as they navigate difficult days ahead," the statement said.
What are the worst mass killings in Canada's history?
12:16 , Alex CroftThe shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, is one of the deadliest mass casualty events in recent Canadian history.
Mass shootings are not common in Canada, far less so than in the United States.
Below are some of Canada's biggest mass killing incidents:
April 2025, Vancouver, British Colombia: Eleven people were killed and dozens injured when a man with a history of mental health issues rammed an SUV through a crowd at a Filipino community festival.
September 2022, Weldon, Saskatchewan: A stabbing spree left 10 people dead and injured 18 others, spanning 13 sites across the two tiny communities of James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon in rural Saskatchewan.
April 2020, Portapique, Nova Scotia: A gunman, who at one point masqueraded as a police officer, killed at least 16 people in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia during a 12-hour rampage, in the country's worst modern-era mass shooting.
July 2018, Toronto, Ontario: A man walked down a busy Toronto street, shooting randomly into restaurants. He killed two people and wounded 13 before turning his gun on himself.
January 2017, Quebec City, Quebec: A man opened fire during evening prayers at a mosque, killing six people and wounding five. Twelve others were treated for minor injuries.
Pictured: Tumbler Ridge School in British Colombia, where eight were found dead
12:09 , Alex Croft
Student describes ‘surreal’ moment when shooting took place at school
11:33 , Alex CroftA student at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School told CBC News that the community should “hold each other close”.
At least nine were killed – including six at the secondary school – in a mass shooting at multiple locations in Tumbler Ridge on Tuesday.
“The reality of it all is starting to set in,” Darian Quist, a Grade 12 student, said.
He said the situation is “almost surreal”.
“It felt like I was somewhere that I had only seen across a TV.”
Canadian police confirm ten dead in school-linked mass shooting in British Columbia
11:32 , Alex CroftCanadian PM suspends Europe trip after school shooting
11:16 , Alex CroftCanadian prime minister Mark Carney has suspended a trip to Europe in order to respond to the school shooting in British Columbia.
Mr Carney was scheduled to fly to Halifax on Wednesday to announce a long-awaited defence industrial strategy, before flying to Munich where he would meet world leaders at the Munich Security Conference, according to the Toronto Star.
Pictured: Students exit Tumbler Ridge school after deadly shootings
10:54 , Alex Croft
'It was not a pretty site': Local pastor recalls meeting victim's families
10:36 , Alex CroftWe can bring you comments from Pastor George Rowe of the Tumbler Ridge Fellowship Baptist Church, who went to the recreation center where the victims' families were awaiting more information.
"It was not a pretty sight. Families are still waiting to hear if it's their child that's deceased and because of protocol and procedure the investigating team is very careful in releasing names," Pastor Rowe said.
"The big thing tonight was my having to walk away and the families still waiting to find out. It is so difficult. Other pastors and counselors are there so they are not alone."
Pastor Rowe once taught at the high school and his three children graduated from there.
"To walk through the corridors of that school will never be the same again," he said.
Resident recalls kids 'running and laughing' on the morning of the shooting
10:07 , Alex CroftIn a heartfelt post on social media, a resident of Tumbler Ridge has recalled seeing school kids “running and laughing” on the morning of the shooting.
“I’m writing this as someone who is just beginning to call this place home,” Tasha Ann Goodine wrote on Facebook. “And has someone who, like many of you, felt the shock and heartbreak of today’s emergency alert ripple straight through my chest.”
Ms Goodine recalled driving past the school on Tuesday morning, hours before the shooting was carried out.
“The town was calm and beautiful. The elementary kids were laughing and running around like kids should,” she said.
“Teenagers were just… being teenagers. No chaos. No trouble. Just a normal northern morning.”
She added: “My heart is with every parent, every student, every educator, and every resident who felt shaken today. As someone joining this community, I stand with you in wanting transparency, safety, and care — so this town can remain what it has always been meant to be: a place where people feel at home, not afraid.”
Bulletin | Ten killed and dozens injured in British Columbia mass shooting
09:56 , Alex CroftRead everything you need to know in five bullet points with The Independent’s Bulletin:
Tumbler Ridge secondary and elementary school to remain closed for the rest of the week
09:34 , Alex CroftLocal officials have announced that both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School will remain closed for the rest of the week, according to an update shared on the district’s website.
Nine people were killed in the mass shooting at the school and a home on Tuesday in Tumbler Ridge in British Columbia.
The suspected shooter was also found dead with what police described as a “self-inflicted wound”.
Police said in a statement: “Work continues to determine whether a second suspect was involved and the total number of victims involved.”
Latest pictures of the scene of the shooting
09:02 , Alex Croft
Tumbler Ridge UNESCO site offers condolences
08:56 , Alex CroftTumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark, a UN-affiliated organisation which protects areas of geological significance, has issued its thoughts for everyone affected by the shooting.
“We want to acknowledge the deeply distressing incident our community experienced today,” it said in a statement on social media.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected, and we recognize that many people may be feeling shaken, frightened, or overwhelmed.”
The Geopark urged people to check in on neighbours, friends and family, adding that “caring for one another is essential”.
It added: “Tumbler Ridge is a close-knit and resilient community, and that strength matters now more than ever.”
'We need support through this nightmare', says Tumbler Ridge resident
08:38 , Alex CroftA resident of Tumbler Ridge has spoken out on Facebook about the fear and devastation which has washed over the small town of 2,400.
“It is a very sad situation here in Tumbler Ridge, many of us are already very shaken in our sense of safety and security and only beginning to be grieving in so many ways,” Tammy Rehbein said on Facebook.
Mr Rehbein and his family were not injured in the shooting. But in Tumbler Ridge, he said, “we all know each other and are all affected”.
He added: “So sad... Our community will be needing a lot of support after this nightmare.
“Thank you for everyone who is helping each other as much as we can at this point and for those who have reached out to me specifically, you are all very appreciated.”
What we know about the Tumble Ridge school shooting in Canada
08:28 , Alex CroftAt least nine people have been killed in a school shooting in a picturesque, isolated town in Western Canada.
Reports from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police say that the shooter, initially described as a brown-haired woman in a dress, has also been found dead after opening fire at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia on Tuesday afternoon.
The school has around 160 to 175 students, according to the district, and is considered the heart of the local community, which itself sits at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Read more here:
What we know about the Tumble Ridge school shooting in Canada
'My daughter is fighting for her life with gunshot wounds to the head and neck'
08:18 , Alex CroftA mother has revealed that her daughter was one of the dozens injured in the school shooting - and is now fighting for her life.
The 12-year-old girl suffered gunshot wounds to her head and neck.
“Today started as any other,” the mother said in a post on Facebook.
“Now, however, my 12 year old daughter is fighting for her life while they try to repair the damage from a gun shot wound to the head. And one to the neck,” she added.
“She was a lucky one, I suppose. Condolences to the other families during this tragedy. This doesnt even feel real.
“I never thought I would be asking for prayers.. but please please, pray for my baby,” she added.
In pictures: Local officials give press conference following mass shooting
07:48 , Alex Croft
Recap: What happened on Tuesday?
07:39 , Alex CroftIn one of Canada’s worst ever mass shootings, at least 10 people have died and more than 25 others are injured at a school and home in British Columbia.
The shooting took place at around 2pm on Tuesday in Tumbler Ridge, a small town in the Canadian Rockies with a population of 2,400. Officials say the town’s small police arrived on the scene two minutes after receiving a call.
Authorities sent out an intrusive mobile alert to urge residents to shelter in place, lock their doors, and refrain from going outside following reports of an active shooter.
Police arrived at the scene to find eight people, including the shooter, dead in Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and two more in a nearby home.
The shooter has been described as a woman with brown hair wearing a dress - a development which would be unusual, as mass shootings in North America are almost always carried out by men.
Investigators say they know the identity of the shooter but will not yet release a name. According to The Globe and Mail, they are also looking into reports of second shooter.
Tumbler Ridge is more than 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) north of Vancouver. The local government website lists Tumbler Ridge Secondary School as having 175 students from Grades 7 to 12.
On Tuesday evening, Canadian prime minister Mark Carney said he was “devastated” by the shooting, and said he grieves “with those whose lives have been changed irreversibly today”. He also thanked the first responders for their “courage and selflessness”.
Neighbouring cafe closes to support grieving community
07:24 , Alex CroftA cafe nextdoor to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School will be closed on Wednesday to support the “shocked and grieving” local community.
Twisted Seasons Bistro, which is metres away from where the shooting took place, addressed the residents of Tumbler Ridge in a post on Facebook.
“TR [Tumbler Ridge] is home, the people here are more than friends and neighbors, they are FAMILY, and what happened here today has left us all shocked and grieving,” it wrote.
“We will not be open tomorrow, so that we can support our families through this. You are not alone….. reach out if you need help.”
Pictured: Tumbler Ridge School building after shooting took place
07:20 , Alex CroftLocal resident says friend’s sister who goes to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School ‘still missing’
07:05 , Maroosha MuzaffarArianna Bazinet, a local resident, saw police cars speeding into town on Tuesday and soon received the emergency alert from the authorities regarding the mass shooting.
“I immediately sent it to my mom and said, ‘Hey, stay in the house, don’t go anywhere,’” Ms Bazinet was quoted as saying by The Globe and Mail.
“We had no idea that it had actually started when kids went back to school at lunchtime.”
She said one of her friend’s sisters was still missing on Tuesday evening. “They can’t find her, and it’s just horrible. We’re hoping to hear good news. We’re praying for good news, but we can only hope.”
Tumbler Ridge mayor breaks down over ‘devastating’ events on Tuesday
06:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarTumbler Ridge mayor Darryl Krakowka said the whole community was grieving after the “tragic day” for Tumbler Ridge.
“I broke down,” he said. “It’s devastating.”
“I have lived here for 18 years,” he said.
The community is a “big family”, he said. “I probably know every one of the victims.”
Tumbler Ridge resident reels from ‘unbelievable tragedy’
06:30 , Maroosha MuzaffarA local councillor at Tumbler Ridge, Chris Norbury, described Tuesday’s events as an “unbelievable tragedy that our community has to live through”.
He told Globe and Mail: “It’ll take a very long time for us to heal.
“The first responders, I can only imagine how they feel, having to see children that they know, fearful that have lost their lives.
#TumblerRidgeRCMP - Update: Police Emergency Alert incident in Tumbler Ridge cancelled https://t.co/adPLGatJzY pic.twitter.com/tjaLEeQKxO
— BCRCMP (@BCRCMP) February 11, 2026
“Multiple people have died,” he said.
“We all know them. And they were friends. And their parents were our friends.”
Student describes ‘surreal’ moment when shooting took place at school
06:20 , Maroosha MuzaffarA student at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School told CBC News that the community should “hold each other close”.
At least nine were killed – including six at the secondary school – in a mass shooting at multiple locations in Tumbler Ridge on Tuesday.
“The reality of it all is starting to set in,” Darian Quist, a Grade 12 student, said.
He said the situation is “almost surreal”.
“It felt like I was somewhere that I had only seen across a TV.”
What we know about the Tumbler Ridge shooting so far:
06:09 , Maroosha Muzaffar- Police received reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at about 1.20pm on Tuesday.
- An emergency alert told residents to stay inside and avoid the area while officers responded.
- Nine people have died
- Six victims were found inside the school, one died while being taken to the hospital, and two others were found dead at a separate residence linked to the incident.
- About 25 people were injured, with several suffering serious or life-threatening wounds.
- Police say the suspected shooter was found dead with what appears to be a “self-inflicted” injury.
- Early alerts described the suspect as a woman, though officials have released few confirmed details publicly. The shooter is deceased.
- Officers entered the building to locate the threat and discovered multiple victims.
- Students and staff were safely evacuated and reunited with their families afterwards.
- Investigators identified a residence connected to the attack, where two more victims were located.
- Police are searching properties to understand whether anyone else is involved.
- Motive is still unclear as police say they might never know what it was.
Tumbler Ridge student describes horror as school went into lockdown
05:39 , Maroosha MuzaffarDarian Quist, a Grade 12 student at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, and his mother Shelley Quist described the horrific moments during the lockdown and how the students “barricaded the doors” as school went into lockdown.
Darian said he had just arrived in class around 1.30pm local time when an alarm sounded, instructing students to shut doors as the school went into lockdown, CBC News reported.
As time passed, he and his classmates realised the situation was serious, especially as images from the scene began circulating on their phones.
“We got tables and barricaded the doors,” he said, explaining that students remained inside for more than two hours until police officers arrived and escorted them out.
After leaving the building, Darian reunited with his mother at a nearby community centre a few hundred metres from the school.
Police still working to determine motive
05:28 , Maroosha MuzaffarAccording to Supt Ken Floyd, North District Commander, police have identified the shooter but are still working to determine the motive.
The weapons used by the shooter have also not been revealed yet.
The police have not made the identities of the 9 victims public.
“For privacy reasons and obviously for the conduct of the investigation, we’re not releasing that information at this time,” Floyd told a press conference on Tuesday evening.
He also did not mention if the shooter was connected to the school or the home where the victims were found.
While the RCMP emergency alert has been lifted, the people of Tumbler Ridge remain in crisis after a devastating act of violence that has shaken their community and our entire province.
— Nina Krieger (@NinaKriegerBC) February 11, 2026
Tonight, the Premier and I shared an update on supports for the community and our continued… pic.twitter.com/OLYxC4HT0w
“We’re still working towards that. Again, it wouldn’t be fair to speculate,” he said.
“We’re following all leads to try and determine the connection to the shooter.
“I think we will struggle to determine the why but we’re going to try and do our best to determine what transpired that day and what led up to this tragic event in Tumbler Ridge and across our communities.”
Tumbler Ridge secondary and elementary school to remain closed for the rest of the week
05:18 , Maroosha MuzaffarLocal officials have announced that both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School will remain closed for the rest of the week, according to an update shared on the district’s website.
Nine people were killed in the mass shooting at the school and a home on Tuesday in Tumbler Ridge in British Columbia.
The suspected shooter was also found dead with what police described as a “self-inflicted wound”.
Police said in a statement: “Work continues to determine whether a second suspect was involved and the total number of victims involved.”
BC premier speaks to press
05:05 , Maroosha Muzaffar“This is a devastating and unimaginable tragedy. We can’t imagine what the community is going through, but I know it’s causing us all to hug our kids a little bit tighter tonight,” BC premier David Eby said.
All of BC is wrapping the families of Tumbler Ridge with love.
— David Eby (@Dave_Eby) February 11, 2026
Supports are available:
BC Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789
Kids Help Phone: Text “CONNECT” to 686868
Thank you to the emergency responders on the ground for the work they are doing. pic.twitter.com/BqbkDnH9JT
Mass shootings are extremely rare in Canada
04:55 , Maroosha MuzaffarMass shootings are extremely rare in Canada, where firearm regulations are far stricter than in the United States.
Data from the Small Arms Research project estimates there are about 121 guns for every 100 people in the US, compared with roughly 35 per 100 residents in Canada.
Incidents at schools on this scale are particularly rare, too.
Extremely concerning situation unfolding in Tumbler Ridge. Residents of Tumbler Ridge are being asked to stay indoors as police respond to a report of an active shooter.
— Nina Krieger (@NinaKriegerBC) February 10, 2026
All our thoughts are with people in Tumbler Ridge. I’ve spoken to the mayor and local MLA, and we are… pic.twitter.com/zq92sPBSFS
One of the country’s most notorious attacks took place in 1989, when a gunman killed 14 women at Montreal’s Ecole Polytechnique – a tragedy that sparked nationwide debate over gender-based violence and pushed lawmakers toward tighter gun controls, CNN reported.
Canada also bans the purchase of assault-style rifles, weapons often linked to some of the deadliest school shootings in the US.
Parents’ council ‘heartbroken’ by Tuesday’s events
04:40 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe Tumbler Ridge Parent Advisory Council (PAC) said it was heartbroken by the mass shooting incident on Tuesday.
“There are no words that can ease the fear and pain that events like this cause in a school community,” the PAC said in a statement to The Globe by chair Nicole Noksana.
“We want families to know that the safety and well-being of students and staff are paramount, and we are grateful to the first responders and emergency personnel who acted quickly and professionally.”
BC Premier calls Tumbler Ridge attack an ‘unimaginable tragedy’
04:33 , Maroosha MuzaffarPremier of British Columbia David Eby said in a post on X: “Our hearts are in Tumbler Ridge tonight with the families of those who have lost loved ones.”
He wrote: “Government will ensure every possible support for community members in the coming days, as we all try to come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy.”
Our hearts are in Tumbler Ridge tonight with the families of those who have lost loved ones.
— David Eby (@Dave_Eby) February 11, 2026
Government will ensure every possible support for community members in the coming days, as we all try to come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy. https://t.co/nr0a6bjEyA
District of Tumbler Ridge issues statement
04:19 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe District of Tumbler Ridge issued a statement on Wednesday and said that the community had “experienced a deeply distressing incident”.
“Our hearts are with all those affected, and we recognise that many residents may be feeling shocked, scared, and overwhelmed,” the statement said.
The statement urged residents to rely on official updates from the police for more details.
Mark Carney ‘devastated’ by the mass shooting
04:16 , Maroosha MuzaffarCanadian prime minister Mark Carney said he was “devastated” by the mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge in British Columbia.
He said: “I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed irreversibly today, and in gratitude for the courage and selflessness of the first responders who risked their lives to protect their fellow citizens.
“Our ability to come together in crisis is the best of our country — our empathy, our unity, and our compassion for each other.
I am devastated by today’s horrific shootings in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. My prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones to these horrific acts of violence.
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) February 11, 2026
I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed…
“I have connected with Premier Eby to express my condolences, and with the Minister of Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree, who is coordinating the federal response.
“Our officials are in close contact with their counterparts to ensure the community is fully supported as best we can. The Government of Canada stands with all British Columbians as they confront this horrible tragedy.”
Police say they are searching other homes and properties for more victims
03:52 , Maroosha MuzaffarPolice said they are searching other homes and properties for more victims or people “otherwise linked to today’s events”.
“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,” Superintendent Ken Floyd, North District Commander, said in the news release.
There are no words for the heartbreaking devastation facing the community of Tumbler Ridge and the province of British Columbia.
— Anna Murphy (@TheAnnaMurphy) February 11, 2026
The hearts of Canadians - from coast to coast to coast - are with every parent, every neighbour, every first responder, and every person whose life…
“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,” Floyd continued.
Suspected shooter found dead
03:42 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe suspected shooter in the deadly incident at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School has been found dead with what police say appears to be a “self-inflicted injury”.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said officers responded to reports of an active shooter at about 1.20pm local time on Tuesday, where six people were found dead and dozens more injured.
Another victim died while being transported to hospital.
Two people with life-threatening injuries were airlifted for treatment, while around 25 others with non-life-threatening injuries are being cared for at a local medical centre.
Police also discovered two additional bodies at a nearby residence believed to be connected to the incident, and said searches of other properties are ongoing.
“Officers are conducting further searches of additional homes and properties to determine whether anyone else may be injured or otherwise linked to today’s events,” police said in a statement.
10 dead including shooter after attack on school in British Columbia
03:36 , Maroosha MuzaffarAt least 10 people have died and more than 25 others are injured after a mass shooting at a school and home in British Columbia on Tuesday.
Authorities in Canada said the death toll included the suspect, who was described in an earlier police alert as a woman with brown hair wearing a dress.
Eight of those killed were at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, while two more people were found dead at a home believed to be connected to the incident.
