Tragedy Strikes Tumbler Ridge: Premier Eby Visits as Community Mourns
A devastating mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, a northeastern British Columbia town, has left eight people dead and 27 others injured. The incident unfolded on Tuesday, February 10, at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where six victims were found deceased. Two additional fatalities were discovered in a nearby home, while 25 individuals were assessed for minor injuries. The shooter also died from a self-inflicted injury inside the school.
Government Response and Day of Mourning
In response to the tragedy, Thursday, February 12, has been officially declared a day of mourning for the Tumbler Ridge community. Premier David Eby and Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger arrived in the town on Wednesday to offer support and condolences. Federal Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree and Housing Minister Gregor Robertson, the MP for Vancouver Fraserview-South Burnaby, are also expected to visit this week.
The B.C. throne speech, originally delayed due to the events, will now open on Thursday at 2 p.m. and will be dedicated to the people of Tumbler Ridge. A livestream of the speech will be available on the B.C. government's YouTube page, allowing residents and the broader public to participate in this solemn occasion.
Community Support and Fundraising Efforts
As the community grapples with the aftermath, support initiatives have emerged to aid the victims and their families. GoFundMe has established a central hub for donations, verifying several campaigns to ensure transparency and effectiveness. The company's crisis response team is actively monitoring the platform for related fundraisers.
Verified campaigns include one organized by the Tumbler Ridge Parent Advisory Committee in partnership with local organizations, aimed at supporting those affected by the tragedy. Another GoFundMe page has identified a victim as 12-year-old Ticaria, with a fundraiser set up by a neighbor to help her single mother cover funeral expenses.
The memorial near Tumbler Ridge Secondary School stands as a poignant reminder of the lives lost, as residents come together to heal and honor the victims. For ongoing updates on this developing story, follow live coverage throughout the day.
