OTTAWA / TUMBLER RIDGE, British Columbia — Feb 11 - Canadian authorities on Wednesday identified the person responsible for a deadly school shooting in British Columbia as an 18-year-old woman who had a documented history of mental health interventions.
Police confirmed that nine people, including the attacker, died in Tuesday’s violence in the remote town of Tumbler Ridge. The revised toll lowered the previously reported number by one.
Officials said the suspect died after the incident and that investigators believe she acted alone. Two severely injured victims remain hospitalized.
Background and Investigation
Law enforcement officials said the suspect had previously been apprehended under British Columbia’s Mental Health Act for assessment on multiple occasions. Police had responded to the family residence several times in recent years related to mental health concerns.
Authorities stated that the suspect had once attended the local secondary school but left several years ago. Investigators have not announced a motive and said it would be premature to speculate.
Police also confirmed that firearms were recovered following the attack. Officials noted that firearms had previously been seized from the residence approximately two years ago but were later returned after a successful appeal by the registered owner. The suspect’s prior firearms license had expired in 2024.
Victims and Community Impact
The victims include family members at a private residence as well as individuals at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The school, which serves around 160 students, remains closed as counseling services are provided to students, staff, and families.
Tumbler Ridge, a community of roughly 2,400 residents in northern British Columbia, has been described by leaders as close-knit and deeply shaken by the tragedy.
Prime Minister Mark Carney postponed scheduled travel and ordered flags at federal buildings lowered to half-mast for seven days. Speaking in Ottawa, he described the nation as grieving and in shock.
Members of Parliament observed a moment of silence, while messages of condolence arrived from international leaders.
National Context
School shootings are rare in Canada, which maintains stricter gun laws than the United States, though licensed firearm ownership is permitted. The tragedy ranks among the most serious mass casualty events in modern Canadian history.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing as they work to understand the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
