CMEDIA: A mass shooting reportedly in northeastern British Columbia has left 10 people dead and more than two dozen injured.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford and other GTA officials expressed shock and solidarity.
The violence in Tumbler Ridge’s small community, already being described as one of the worst mass shootings in Canadian history, has prompted condolences, flag-lowering orders and symbolic tributes from officials and organizations across the Greater Toronto Area.
After receiving reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time Tues, RCMP say by the end of the day, 10 were dead, many of whom were found at the local high school.
Also read: A list of Canadian school shootings
Spreading far beyond the Peace River region, the tragedy has drawn responses from political leaders and institutions across the world.
“My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones and everyone who was impacted by the terrible shooting that took place yesterday in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.,” Ford said in a statement.
“I’m praying for a full recovery for all those who were injured in the attack. Ontario stands ready to support the people of British Columbia however we can.”
Located in northeastern B.C.’s Peace River region, Tumbler Ridge has a population of about 2,400 with its secondary school having roughly 160 students, according to School District 59.
According to the police six people were found dead inside the school, and an additional victim died while being transported to hospital.
Two others were airlifted from the school with serious injuries.
Approximately 25 additional people were treated at a local clinic for non-life-threatening injuries.
Two more victims later found dead inside a home are believed by the police to be connected to the shooting.
Police officers are continuing to search additional homes and properties to determine whether anyone else may have been harmed.
‘Toronto mourns with you’
In a statement posted to social media, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed her gratitude to the first responders who “arrived within two minutes and saved lives through their courage.”
“Our hearts are breaking for the people of Tumbler Ridge. Families and loved ones have been forever changed, she said. ”To the parents, grandparents, and siblings who woke up without someone they love, Toronto mourns with you. Canada mourns with you. You are not alone.”
“We want to wrap your entire community in love, not just today, but in all the days ahead…Our gratitude goes to the first responders who arrived within two minutes and saved lives through their courage.”
Toronto police service
Speaking at a separate press conference, Deputy Lauren Pogue of the Toronto police offered condolences on behalf of Chief Myron Demkiw and the entire police service.
“Our thoughts are certainly with Tumbler Ridge today,” she said. “I want to also acknowledge our fellow police officers and first responders in British Columbia for their courage and professionalism.”
Symbolic tributes in Toronto
In Toronto, the CN Tower said it would dim for five minutes at the top of each hour Tuesday night in honour of the victims.
“Tonight the CNTower will dim for 5 minutes at the top of each hour in honour of the victims of the attack in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia,” the organization said.
The Toronto Blue Jays also issued a statement expressing condolences.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events in Tumbler Ridge, BC, and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and the entire Tumbler Ridge community. We stand with you in support during this time of unbearable grief and mourning,” the statement reads.
The investigation remains ongoing, Police in British Columbia said.
