Tumbler Ridge Shooting: Canada's Worst Mass School Attack Unfolds
A quiet Canadian community nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains has been shattered by an unprecedented act of violence, as a woman opened fire in a secondary school and a connected residence. The town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, with a population of approximately 2,400, is now at the centre of the deadliest mass school shooting in Canadian history. Ten individuals, including the suspected shooter, have lost their lives, while 25 others sustained injuries, two of whom were airlifted to hospital with life-threatening conditions.
Police Response and Investigation Details
Local authorities were alerted to an active shooter situation at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School around 1:20 PM on February 10, 2026. The school, which educates about 160 students aged 12 to 18, became the focal point of a rapid emergency response. Air ambulances were dispatched from Grand Prairie, Alberta, located roughly 140 kilometres away, to assist with critical casualties. Police swiftly cordoned off all roads surrounding the school to facilitate evacuation efforts and secure the area.
Police Superintendent Ken Floyd addressed the media, confirming that investigators have identified a female suspect but are withholding her name pending further inquiries. "We are not in a position to understand why or what may have motivated this tragedy," Floyd stated, emphasising that the shooter's motive remains unclear at this stage.
Victim Toll and Scene Discoveries
The confirmed death toll stands at ten, encompassing the suspected shooter. Seven victims were discovered inside the high school premises, with an additional individual succumbing to injuries en route to the hospital. Authorities have cautioned against speculation regarding whether the deceased are children or adults, as formal identifications are still underway.
"An individual believed to be the shooter was also found deceased with what appears to be a self-inflicted injury," police reported. In a chilling development, two more bodies were located at a residential property believed to be linked to the attack, though the exact connection has not been disclosed.
Suspect Profile and Community Impact
During the incident, an emergency alert was broadcast to mobile phones in the region, describing the suspect as a woman wearing a dress with brown hair. With the suspect now confirmed deceased, the relationship between her and the victims remains a key line of inquiry for investigators, who promise to release more details in due course.
The tragedy has left the close-knit community of Tumbler Ridge in profound grief. Mayor Darryl Krakowka expressed his devastation, telling reporters, "I broke down. It's devastating. I have lived here for 18 years. I probably know every one of the victims." Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed these sentiments in a social media statement, extending condolences and praising the bravery of first responders.
Geographical and Legal Context
Tumbler Ridge is a small, remote town originally established to support the coal industry, surrounded by wilderness and home to just under 3,000 residents. This incident has reignited discussions about Canada's gun control measures, which include mandatory firearms licences, safety training, and background checks for all owners. British Columbia ranks among the top provinces for licensed gun owners, with approximately 350,000 permit holders.
This shooting marks Canada's deadliest rampage since 2020, when a gunman in Nova Scotia claimed 13 lives. The Canadian government has previously responded to mass shootings with tightened regulations, such as an expanded ban on assault-style weapons, highlighting the ongoing national debate surrounding firearm safety and legislation.
