Nine people have lost their lives and at least 25 others have been injured following a deadly shooting incident at a secondary school and a nearby residence in Tumbler Ridge, a small and closely connected community in British Columbia, Canada.
Authorities are still piecing together the events, but early details paint a tragic picture of violence that has shaken the town.
According to officials, six victims were found dead inside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. A seventh victim died while being transported to hospital. Two more bodies were later discovered at a residence close to the school.
The suspected attacker was also found dead at the school. Police say the individual sustained what has been described as a self-inflicted injury. Although authorities have confirmed they know the suspect’s identity, they have not publicly released the name or gender.
An emergency alert sent to residents during the incident described the suspect as a female wearing a dress with brown hair.
Medical teams rushed several injured victims to hospital. At least two people are reported to be in serious or
life-threatening condition, while up to 25 others are being treated for injuries that are not considered life-threatening.
Security lockdowns imposed on both the secondary school and a nearby elementary school have since been lifted. However, officials have announced that both institutions will remain closed for the rest of the week.
Despite the confirmed details, many questions remain unanswered.
Police have not disclosed the identities or ages of the victims. The relationship, if any, between the suspect and the school community has also not been made public.
Investigators believe there could be a connection between the incident at the school and the deaths at the nearby residence, but they say it is too early to draw firm conclusions.
Authorities had earlier indicated that surrounding homes were being searched following the shooting. It remains unclear whether that process has been fully completed.
As the investigation continues, the community of Tumbler Ridge is left mourning a devastating loss, with families awaiting further information from officials in the days ahead.