Tumbler Ridge Community on High Alert Amid Possible Active Shooter Situation
The quiet community of Tumbler Ridge in northeast British Columbia was thrust into a state of high alert on Tuesday afternoon as police responded to what authorities described as a possible active shooter situation. Residents received emergency alerts instructing them to take immediate shelter as RCMP worked to secure the area.
Emergency Alert Issued to Residents
Around 3 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the Tumbler Ridge RCMP issued an emergency alert via text notification to local residents. The urgent message instructed the public to "stay inside and shelter in place, lock your doors and refrain from leaving your home or business at this time." Police described the suspect as a woman wearing a dress with brown hair, though specific details about the nature of the threat remained limited as the situation unfolded.
Authorities emphasized that all individuals should avoid the Tumbler Ridge area entirely and strictly follow police directions. The alert created a tense atmosphere in the normally peaceful community, with residents anxiously awaiting updates from law enforcement.
School District Implements Lockdown Procedures
Simultaneously, School District 59 (Peace River South) posted an urgent message to its website confirming that both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School had implemented lockdown and secure-and-hold procedures. The district's update, shared at 2:50 p.m., stated: "The district is aware of a lockdown and secure and hold at Tumbler Ridge Secondary and Tumbler Ridge Elementary schools. We are asking people to have patience as we work with the RCMP."
The school lockdowns added another layer of concern for parents and community members, particularly as authorities worked to ensure student safety during the unfolding emergency. District officials coordinated closely with RCMP while maintaining communication with concerned families.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
As the situation developed, the entire Tumbler Ridge community remained on edge, with businesses closing and residents following shelter-in-place orders. The RCMP's response included multiple units working to contain and resolve the potential threat, though details about police operations were limited to protect tactical effectiveness.
At the time of reporting, it remained unclear whether there had been any injuries related to the incident. Authorities continued to gather information and assess the situation while maintaining a strong presence throughout the community. The RCMP's priority remained ensuring public safety while investigating the circumstances that prompted the emergency alert.
This developing situation in Tumbler Ridge highlights the challenges faced by rural communities when responding to potential violent threats. The coordinated response between school officials and law enforcement demonstrates the importance of emergency preparedness protocols in protecting vulnerable populations during crises.
