Tumbler Ridge Mass Shooting: What We Know So Far
Recent events have plunged the rural community of Tumbler Ridge into mourning, making this mass shooting one of the deadliest incidents in Canadian history. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what we know so far.
Timeline of the Attack
– The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) received reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at 1:20 PM local time on Tuesday (8:20 PM GMT).
– In response, police promptly deployed officers and issued an active shooter alert to the community, urging residents to shelter in place, lock your doors, and refrain from leaving your homes.
– A hold and secure lockdown was initiated at both Tumbler Ridge Secondary and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School shortly after the alert.
– British Columbia’s Minister of Public Safety, Nina Krieger, noted that police arrived at the secondary school within two minutes of the call, a response that she stated “no doubt saved lives.”
Overview of Victims
– Initial reports indicate that nine people have tragically lost their lives, with six victims found inside the school alone.
– Two individuals were airlifted to the hospital with serious injuries, while a third victim died en route.
– Approximately 25 others are being evaluated for non-life-threatening injuries at the local medical center.
– Following further investigation, two additional victims were discovered in a nearby residence.
– The RCMP continues to search surrounding homes for any additional victims or individuals affected by this horrific event.
Suspected Attacker Details
– Authorities have confirmed that they know the suspect’s identity but have yet to release specific details.
– The suspect was found dead inside the school, apparently from a self-inflicted injury.
– Initial descriptions provided in alerts indicated the suspect was a female in a dress with brown hair, yet further identifying details are still pending.
– Law enforcement is actively probing potential motives and any connections the suspect may have had to the school.
Survivor Accounts
Darian Quist, a Grade 12 student, recounted his harrowing experience during the attack:
– Upon hearing the lockdown alarm shortly after 1:30 PM, Darian and his classmates instinctively barricaded the door with tables.
– They stayed locked down for more than two hours until officers arrived to escort them out, during which Darian received alarming updates through photos on his phone.
– His mother, Shelley Quist, described her frantic rush to reach the school after witnessing police activity near her son’s classroom.
Community Response and Reactions
– Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka expressed deep sorrow, stating, “I will know every victim. I don’t call them residents. I call them family.”
– Town councilor Chris Norbury emphasized the shock gripping their tight-knit community, highlighting its historically low crime rate.
– British Columbia Premier David Eby labeled the shootings as a devastating and unimaginable tragedy, emphasizing the emotional toll on families and friends.
– In light of the tragedy, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney postponed a planned trip to Germany to address the situation.
In Conclusion
The Tumbler Ridge mass shooting serves as a stark reminder of the impact such violence can have on a small community. As authorities continue their investigations, support for the victims and their families is pouring in from across the nation. The community is healing, but the shadows of this tragic event will linger long after the news coverage fades.