Deadly School Shooting in Remote B.C. Community Claims Ten Lives
Canada is grappling with one of its most devastating mass shootings in recent history after a violent attack at a high school in northeastern British Columbia left ten people dead, including the suspected assailant. The tragedy unfolded on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, sending shockwaves across the nation.
Police Response and Immediate Aftermath
Shortly after 1:20 p.m. local time, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers responded to reports of an active shooter at the school. Upon arrival, they discovered six victims deceased inside the building. Another individual succumbed to injuries while being transported to a hospital, and two additional victims were later found dead at a nearby residence believed to be connected to the incident.
The suspected shooter was also found dead at the school with what investigators have described as an apparent self-inflicted injury. Authorities have stated unequivocally that there is no ongoing threat to public safety, providing some measure of reassurance to the traumatized community.
Community Profile and Evacuation Efforts
Tumbler Ridge is a remote community of approximately 2,400 residents located near the Alberta border. The secondary school serves about 175 students from Grades 7 through 12, making the impact of this violence particularly concentrated and devastating for the small town.
All remaining students and staff members were safely evacuated from the premises following the attack. Police officials confirmed they are working closely with the school district to coordinate a reunification process for families affected by this tragedy.
Historical Context of Canadian Mass Shootings
This incident represents one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canada in decades. The last comparable tragedy occurred in 2020 when a gunman killed 22 victims in Nova Scotia using multiple firearms and setting fires during his rampage. Prior to that, the École Polytechnique massacre in Montreal on December 6, 1989, which claimed 14 lives, was the last time more than ten people were killed in a mass shooting in Canada.
Political Reactions and Support Measures
The attack prompted immediate responses from political leaders across the country. British Columbia Premier David Eby expressed profound sorrow, stating on social media platform X: "Our hearts are in Tumbler Ridge tonight with the families of those who have lost loved ones. Government will ensure every possible support for community members in the coming days, as we all try to come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy."
Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a statement expressing devastation over the "horrific shootings" and offering his deepest condolences to victims' families and friends. He confirmed having spoken with Premier Eby and federal Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree, who is coordinating the federal response. Carney emphasized that federal officials are maintaining close contact with provincial counterparts to ensure comprehensive support reaches the affected community.
Quebec Premier François Legault also voiced solidarity with British Columbia, stating he was "deeply saddened" by the shooting and thanking first responders for their courage during the crisis.
Investigation and Community Support
The B.C. RCMP major crime unit has assumed control of the investigation into what led to this violent attack. Additional RCMP resources, including the Emergency Response Team and victim services personnel, have been deployed to Tumbler Ridge to assist with the ongoing investigation and provide support to affected community members.
School officials announced that both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School will remain closed for the remainder of the week as the community begins the difficult process of healing and recovery.
RCMP Superintendent Ken Floyd acknowledged the critical role played by swift cooperation from school staff, first responders, and community members in the immediate response to the crisis. As investigators work to determine the motive and circumstances behind this tragedy, the nation mourns with the small community of Tumbler Ridge during this profoundly difficult time.
