La Loche School Community Offers Support to Tumbler Ridge After Mass Shooting
In a poignant display of empathy, the community of La Loche, Saskatchewan, is reaching out with messages of solidarity and condolences to the small British Columbia town of Tumbler Ridge. This gesture comes in the wake of one of the most devastating school shootings in Canadian history, which unfolded at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School on February 11, 2026.
Tragic Events Unfold in Tumbler Ridge
Police responded to an active shooter situation at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School after an emergency alert was issued around 1:20 p.m. on Tuesday. Inside the school building, officers discovered multiple victims, and the individual believed to be the shooter was found deceased from what appeared to be a self-inflicted injury. In a nearby residence, two additional fatalities were located, believed to be connected to the school incident.
The attack resulted in a total of ten deaths, including the suspect, and left 27 individuals injured. RCMP Superintendent Ken Floyd confirmed that while the shooter has been identified, authorities are still investigating the motive behind this horrific act. For privacy and investigative reasons, details regarding the victims' identities—whether students, teachers, or staff—have not been released at this time.
Echoes of La Loche's Past Tragedy
The shooting in Tumbler Ridge bears a heartbreaking resemblance to the mass killing that occurred in La Loche on January 22, 2016. In that incident, 17-year-old Dayne Fontaine and his 13-year-old brother Drayden Fontaine were shot at their home by their cousin, Randan Fontaine. Randan then proceeded to Dene High School, where he killed teacher's aide Marie Janvier and teacher Adam Wood, injuring seven others.
Reflecting on this shared trauma, Dene High School posted a heartfelt message on its official Facebook page: "We are horrified to learn of the tragic events caused by the acts of violence in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims, families, community members, and school staff. We stand with them in solidarity!"
Political Leaders Express Condolences
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe and Opposition Leader Carla Beck both expressed their profound sadness and support for the Tumbler Ridge community. In a social media post, Premier Moe stated, "Horrifying news from Tumbler Ridge, B.C. Our prayers are with the families of the victims, those injured, and everyone in the community."
Opposition Leader Carla Beck issued a statement saying, "I am shocked and deeply heartbroken by the horrific shootings in Tumbler Ridge. My deepest condolences go out to all those who have lost loved ones or have been impacted by this tragic event. This is an impossibly difficult day for the people of Tumbler Ridge and British Columbia. The people of Saskatchewan stand with Tumbler Ridge for the days and years to come."
Community Resilience in the Face of Adversity
This act of solidarity from La Loche highlights the enduring strength and compassion of communities affected by such tragedies. As both towns grapple with the aftermath of violence, the support from La Loche serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and shared grief in healing processes. The incident underscores ongoing concerns about school safety and the need for continued efforts to prevent such events in the future.
