Canada is reeling after one of the deadliest school shootings in its history claimed nine lives in the northern British Columbia community of Tumbler Ridge.
Police confirmed that six victims were found dead inside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School following reports of an active shooter Tuesday afternoon. A seventh victim died while being transported to hospital. Two additional people were discovered dead inside a nearby residence, which investigators believe is connected to the school attack.
The sole suspect was located inside the school and died from what police described as a self inflicted injury. In total, 10 people, including the suspect, are dead.
The violence began shortly after 1:20 p.m. local time, when an emergency alert warned residents of an active shooter in the area. Schools and homes were placed under lockdown. The alert remained in effect until 5:45 p.m., as heavily armed RCMP officers secured the scene.
At least 25 others were injured. Authorities have not released details about the severity of most injuries or where victims are being treated. B.C. Emergency Health Services said two people were airlifted to hospital, “one in critical condition, and one in serious but stable condition.” Paramedics treated several others at the scene who did not require transport.
A Grade 12 student described being barricaded in a classroom with classmates for more than two hours. “It felt like I was somewhere that I had only seen across a TV,” the student said.
RCMP investigators believe they have identified the shooter but have not released a name. They also declined to identify the victims, citing privacy laws and the need to notify families. Officers acknowledged they will “struggle” to determine a motive for the attack.
Messages of support have poured in from across Canada and around the world.
Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a statement expressing solidarity with grieving families and local officials. He has postponed a planned trip to the Munich Security Conference in light of the tragedy.
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.
I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed…
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) February 11, 2026
King Charles said the shooting casts an “appalling shadow” over the “closely connected town” of Tumbler Ridge. “My wife and I were profoundly shocked and saddened to learn of the most dreadful attack at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia,” he said, offering his “deepest possible sympathy” to victims’ families and those with relatives in hospital.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences, writing on social media: “Deeply shocked by the horrendous shooting in Canada. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands in solidarity with the people of Canada in this moment of profound grief.”
Deeply shocked by the horrendous shooting in Canada. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands in solidarity with the people of Canada in this moment of profound grief. @MarkJCarney
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 11, 2026
