Tumbler Ridge Community in Lockdown After Active Shooter Incident at Secondary School
The quiet community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia was thrust into chaos on Tuesday afternoon when an active shooter situation unfolded at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, prompting immediate lockdown orders and widespread concern throughout the Peace River region.
Emergency Alert and Immediate Response
At approximately 1:20 p.m. Pacific Time, residents across a large area surrounding Tumbler Ridge received an emergency text alert from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The alert described an "active shooter incident" at the local secondary school and instructed residents to stay inside, lock their doors, and shelter in place. The RCMP specifically requested that the public avoid the Tumbler Ridge area entirely and follow all police directions without exception.
According to police statements, the suspect was described as a woman wearing a dress with brown hair. In a subsequent update, authorities confirmed that one shooter has been found deceased, though significant uncertainty remains regarding whether additional suspects were involved or how many potential victims might be affected by the incident.
Community Reaction and Emotional Impact
Trent Enrst, publisher of the local news outlet Tumbler RidgeLines, provided firsthand observations of the tense situation. When he attempted to approach the school to gather information, he found all access roads completely blocked by law enforcement. "People are definitely worried," Enrst told CBC, his voice breaking with emotion as he described the typically peaceful community.
"This is a quiet and safe place where people feel like emergencies like this don't happen," Enrst explained. "That sense of security has been completely shattered today." His emotional response underscores the profound impact such incidents have on small, close-knit communities that rarely experience violent crises of this magnitude.
Political Response and Support Mobilization
Peace River South MLA Larry Neufeld immediately responded to the developing crisis, traveling from Victoria to his riding to provide on-the-ground support. In a formal statement, Neufeld expressed his concern for residents while coordinating with provincial authorities.
"I am aware of the active shooter situation currently unfolding in Tumbler Ridge, and my thoughts are with residents as this situation continues to develop," Neufeld stated. "I have been in direct contact with the solicitor general to receive updates and to ensure all necessary provincial resources are being made available to support local law enforcement and emergency responders."
Community Profile and Context
Tumbler Ridge is a district municipality situated in northeastern British Columbia's Peace River region. According to the most recent census data from 2021, the main townsite has approximately 2,400 residents. The community is known for its peaceful atmosphere and tight-knit social fabric, making Tuesday's events particularly shocking for local residents.
As the situation continues to develop, authorities maintain a strong presence in the area while investigators work to determine the full scope of the incident. The RCMP has not released additional details about potential motives or the exact circumstances surrounding the shooter's death, leaving many questions unanswered for anxious community members.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder that no community is immune to violent crises, regardless of size or perceived safety. As Tumbler Ridge residents await further information, the broader British Columbia community extends support to those affected by this traumatic event.
