This is a developing story and updtes will be made available.
Nine people have been killed and at least 25 others injured in a series of shootings at a secondary school and a nearby home in Tumbler Ridge, a small community in British Columbia, police confirmed.
Authorities said six victims were found dead inside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, while a seventh person died en route to hospital. The suspect’s body was also discovered at the school with what officials described as a self-inflicted injury.
Two additional victims were later found dead inside a residence close to the school. Investigators believe the incidents are connected but say it is too early to confirm this conclusively.
Police have identified the attacker but have not yet released details about their name or gender. An earlier shelter-in-place alert described the suspect as a “female in a dress with brown hair.”
Emergency crews and law enforcement responded swiftly, securing the school and surrounding area while paramedics treated the injured. At least 25 people were transported to hospital for further care.
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was “devastated” by the “horrific shootings,” while British Columbia Premier David Eby praised first responders, saying their rapid action likely prevented the tragedy from becoming even worse.
Students described scenes of fear and confusion as the violence unfolded. One learner told CBC that he and his classmates pushed tables against doors and barricaded themselves inside classrooms to stay safe.
Tumbler Ridge, located roughly 670 kilometres north of Vancouver, has a population of about 2,400 residents. The tight-knit community is now grappling with the aftermath of one of the deadliest incidents in its history.
Police say the investigation remains ongoing as they work to determine a motive and piece together the sequence of events.