A shooting at a school in the Canadian province of British Columbia has left ten people dead, including the suspected gunman, according to police. Several others were injured in the incident.
The attack occurred at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time on Wednesday at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that the suspect was found dead inside the school. Preliminary evidence indicates that he may have taken his own life.
Police reported recovering six bodies on school grounds. Another victim died while being transported to the hospital, and two additional bodies were found inside a residential building within the community.
Immediately after the incident, Tumbler Ridge police issued a public safety alert, urging residents to remain indoors. Law enforcement agencies are continuing investigations to determine whether any additional suspects were involved and to establish an accurate count of casualties.
Residents of the small town—home to approximately 2,400 people—have been instructed to stay inside as emergency services, including extra police units and ambulances from surrounding areas, were deployed.
The Peace River South School District confirmed that both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School were placed under lockdown and “secure and hold” procedures following the attack.
Larry Neufeld, the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Peace River South, stated that additional police and medical personnel have been dispatched to the area. He added that further details are being withheld for operational safety reasons.
According to the provincial government’s website, Tumbler Ridge Secondary School serves 175 students from grades 7 through 12.
The attack has left the entire region in a state of shock and deep concern. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive, and the final numbers of victims and injured individuals remain subject to ongoing investigation.
Source: NDTV.