TUMBLER RIDGE, BRITISH COLUMBIA — RCMP say there are “multiple victims” in a shooting at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia’s Peace region.
RCMP Staff Sgt. Kris Clark confirms in a text message that there are victims in what police have called an “active shooter” situation, however he couldn’t say how many people are involved or the extent of their injuries.
Police said in an earlier statement that the “original suspect” was believed to be dead, but officers were working to determine whether a second suspect is involved.
The emergency alert that went out to the cellphones of local residents on Tuesday afternoon describes a suspect as a “female in a dress with brown hair.”
Police are asking residents in Tumbler Ridge to shelter in place as additional police resources are being deployed to the area from neighbouring detachments.
RCMP say that no one should approach a potential suspect and should call 911.
The District of Tumbler Ridge issued a statement saying its community experienced “a deeply distressing incident” on Tuesday, and as the situation was still unfolding, it was asking residents to rely on official updates from the RCMP and emergency authorities.
It said supports were already in the community or on the way.
“In the days ahead, we know this will be difficult for many to process. Please check in on one another, lean on available supports, and know that Tumbler Ridge is a strong and caring community. We will get through this together,” read the statement.”
David Marose, a staff member at the Tumbler Ridge Inn, said he also received the warning about the shooter.
“I am praying for everyone there because it’s horrible.”
The provincial government website lists Tumbler Ridge Secondary School as having 175 students from Grades 7 to 12.
The Peace River South School District said Tuesday that there was a “lockdown and secure and hold” at both the secondary school and the Tumbler Ridge Elementary school.
Larry Neufeld, the member of the legislature for Peace River South, told reporters at the legislature that an “excess” of resources, including RCMP and ambulance support, have been sent to the community.
He said he didn’t want to release any more information over concerns that it might jeopardize the safety of the ongoing operation, and he urged those in the community to stay where they are.
“We do understand that a few folks are out looking for loved ones, and again, please, please go back to your homes and shelter in place and allow the amazing people of the RCMP to make this community, this beautiful community, safe again,” he said.
A statement from B.C.’s Minister of Public Safety Nina Krieger said Tuesday she had spoken to the mayor and Neufeld, and the government was offering the RCMP any additional assistance needed.
“(An) extremely concerning situation unfolding in Tumbler Ridge,” she said.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 10, 2025.
The Canadian Press
