British Columbia: Officials later confirmed that the death toll included the suspected gunman. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) issued an emergency alert Tuesday afternoon after receiving reports of an active shooter, asking residents to remain indoors while officers secure the area.

Police found several victims inside the school, but other deaths were reported nearby, including one victim who died while being taken to hospital and another who was found in a residence believed to have been involved in the attack. The suspect was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, but authorities have not yet released his identity or a motive for the violence.

The incident devastated the close-knit town of Tumbler Ridge, home to about 2,400 residents, and is described as one of the worst school shootings in recent Canadian history. Prime Minister Mark Carney described the attack as “horrific,” expressing his deep sadness for the victims and their families as emergency services continued their rescue and medical efforts. At least 25 people were treated for injuries, several in critical condition, and two were airlifted to specialist hospitals.

Schools across the region are on lockdown and will remain closed until the end of this week as authorities provide advice and support services. Authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to public safety, but investigations into how the attack was carried out and what led to the fatal incident continue.