In a tragic and rare act of mass violence in Canada, a gunman killed at least ten people and injured more than two dozen others at a school in the remote town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, on Tuesday, authorities said.
The shooting took place at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, a small institution that serves around 160 students. Police found six victims inside the school premises. Investigators later discovered two more bodies at a nearby residence linked to the suspect, while another victim died on the way to the hospital, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
Police rushed to the scene within minutes of receiving the first emergency call. Officers later located the suspected gunman, who had taken his own life. Authorities confirmed that the threat has ended and assured residents that no further danger exists. Investigators have launched a detailed probe to determine the motive and reconstruct the sequence of events.
The small, tight-knit community of roughly 2,400 residents remains in shock as emergency crews continue treating at least 25 injured, including individuals with serious wounds. Mental health and counseling support services have been mobilized for students, staff, and families affected by the tragedy.
Reacting to the grim news, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his “deep shock” and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, also wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. In a social media post, he affirmed that “India stands in solidarity with the people of Canada in this moment of profound grief.”
Global leaders have echoed similar sentiments of sympathy and solidarity for Canada’s grieving community as investigations continue into one of the country’s most severe modern mass shootings.
