Nine people have died and dozens were hurt after a shooter opened fire at a high school in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., in one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canada’s history. The suspect was later found dead at the school from what police believe was a self-inflicted injury.
RCMP said six people were found dead inside the school. Two more bodies were discovered at a nearby home connected to the case, and another person died on the way to hospital. More than two dozen people were taken to hospital, including two with life-threatening injuries. Police said they do not believe there are any other suspects or ongoing danger to the public.
An emergency alert was sent out Tuesday afternoon telling residents to stay inside and lock their doors. The alert was lifted later in the day. About 100 students and staff were safely evacuated from the school, which has around 160 students in Grades 7 to 12. The school will remain closed for the rest of the week, and counselling will be offered.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was “devastated” and cancelled a planned trip to Germany. B.C. Premier David Eby called the shooting an “unimaginable tragedy.” Local officials urged residents to support one another as the small community of fewer than 2,500 people begins to grieve. Police say they are still investigating and have not shared a possible motive.
