Canada school shooting kills 10 in British Columbia, woman suspect found dead

A deadly shooting rocked a secondary school in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, on Wednesday. At least 10 people died, including the suspected shooter. The incident ranks among Canada’s deadliest school attacks in recent years.

According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, officers received reports of an active shooter at around 1:20 pm on February 10. Soon after, authorities issued a public alert. Police teams rushed to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.

First, officers secured the main entrance. Then, they began room-by-room searches. Inside the school, police found six victims dead. The suspect did not count among them. Meanwhile, emergency workers rushed the injured to hospitals.

Later, one victim died on the way to medical care. In addition, officers searched a nearby residence linked to the case. There, they found two more bodies. As a result, the total death toll rose to 10, including the shooter.

Soon after, police located the suspect inside the school. Investigators said she died from what appeared to be a self-inflicted injury. Authorities ruled out the involvement of other attackers. They also said no immediate threat remained.

Earlier, emergency alerts described the suspect as a woman wearing a dress with brown hair. Later, Superintendent Ken Floyd confirmed that description matched the person found dead at the scene.

Meanwhile, police withheld the identities of the victims. They also declined to confirm how many were minors. Investigators said they are still examining the motive. At first, officers considered the possibility of a second suspect. However, they later dismissed that theory.

At the same time, hospitals treated dozens of injured people. At least two victims required airlifts for critical care. Around 25 others received treatment for minor injuries at a local medical centre.

Because of the risk, authorities urged residents to stay indoors. Police asked people to lock their doors. They also told citizens to avoid the area. Officers set up security perimeters around the school and nearby streets.

In a public statement, police said they continued searches at multiple locations. They also checked nearby homes and properties. Their goal remains to find possible links and ensure no one else needs help.

To strengthen operations, neighbouring police units joined the response. Emergency services coordinated closely. Firefighters, paramedics, and school officials worked together to manage evacuations and medical aid.

Superintendent Floyd praised the quick cooperation. He said staff, first responders, and residents acted responsibly. He also expressed sympathy for affected families. He described the day as deeply painful for the community.

Political leaders also reacted. Former central bank governor Mark Carney expressed shock. He offered condolences to victims’ families. He thanked first responders for their courage.

Carney said he contacted Premier David Eby and Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree. He added that federal agencies are coordinating support. He assured residents that the government stands with British Columbians.

Meanwhile, local MLA Larry Neufeld said he was returning from Victoria. He said he plans to meet families and community leaders. He promised to help secure resources for recovery.

This tragedy comes amid growing concerns over school safety in North America. In recent years, authorities have increased drills and monitoring. However, violent incidents continue to challenge communities.

For now, police continue their investigation. Officers are collecting evidence. They are reviewing surveillance footage. They are also interviewing witnesses.

Officials said they will release more details in the coming days. Until then, Tumbler Ridge mourns its losses. Residents gather for vigils. Families seek answers. The community now begins the long process of healing after a devastating day.