A mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia, Canada, has left multiple people dead and many more injured, and it is one of the deadliest school shootings in Canadian history.
What happened
On 10 February 2026, an 18‑year‑old former student opened fire at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and at a nearby home in the small mountain town of Tumbler Ridge.
Police say the suspect died from what appears to be a self‑inflicted gunshot wound inside the school, and authorities believe she acted alone.
Casualties
Reports from police and officials indicate that eight to ten people were killed in total, including the shooter, with figures differing slightly between outlets as information is updated.
Six victims were found dead inside the school, several more died at or en route to hospital or at a linked residence, and roughly 25–27 others suffered mostly non‑life‑threatening injuries, with a small number in critical condition.
Victims and suspect
Among the dead are five students aged around 12–13 and at least one teacher, along with the suspect’s mother and younger stepbrother at the associated home.
Police have identified the shooter as 18‑year‑old Jesse Van Rootselaar, who had prior police contacts related to mental health; investigators say it is too early to determine a clear motive.
Police and community response
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police say officers reached the school within about two minutes of the first emergency call, placed the area in lockdown, and later lifted an active‑shooter alert after confirming there was no further threat.
The town and province have held vigils and declared a day of mourning, while Canadian leaders, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, have expressed condolences and postponed official travel in light of the tragedy.
If you’d like, I can focus next on mental‑health resources, how to talk with kids about events like this, or the broader discussion of school safety policies in Canada.
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