What Happened: Timeline of the Tumbler Ridge Shooting
The attack began around 1:20 p.m. local time when Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) received reports of an active shooter at the high school.
Six victims were found dead inside the school building, one died en route to hospital, and two more were discovered at a related residential location. The shooter was found dead from a self-inflicted wound.
More than 25 people sustained injuries of varying severity. Medevac helicopters were deployed to airlift critically injured victims to larger medical facilities.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the incident as a “devastating tragedy” and extended condolences to the affected families: “I join everyone whose lives have been forever changed today in mourning this loss.”
Tumbler Ridge, a small town of approximately 2,400 residents known for its mining industry and stunning natural surroundings, has been left in shock by an event virtually unheard of in such a tight-knit, isolated community.
This incident ranks among Canada’s most lethal mass shootings in decades, reigniting national debates over gun control, school safety, and mental health support.
Authorities continue to investigate the shooter’s motives and the full sequence of events, urging any witnesses to come forward with information.
As the community begins to grieve, support services have been made available to students, staff, and residents affected by the tragedy.