Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed deep grief over the deadly shooting at a school in Canada’s British Columbia, offering condolences to the families of those killed and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said he was deeply shocked by the incident and that India stands in solidarity with the people of Canada during this moment of profound grief.
The shooting took place on Tuesday (local time) in the small mining town of Tumbler Ridge, where nine people were killed in what officials described as a mass shooting. According to police, seven victims were found inside a local high school, while two others were discovered in a nearby residence.
Chief Superintendent Ken Floyd of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police northern district said the suspected shooter was found dead inside the school. Authorities indicated that the suspect may have been a woman or someone dressed in female attire, though details regarding identity and motive remain under investigation.
Around 100 staff members and students were safely evacuated from the school. Two individuals with serious injuries were airlifted to a hospital, while 25 others received medical attention at a local facility.
British Columbia Premier David Eby described the incident as an unimaginable tragedy and assured that the provincial government would extend full support to the affected community.
Police officials stated that they are still working to determine the motive behind the attack, noting that both crime scenes — the school and the nearby house — appear to be connected.
Tumbler Ridge, a coal mining town with a population of about 2,400, is known for its dinosaur fossil sites and close-knit community. The incident has left residents and authorities grappling with shock and mourning.
Our Thoughts
Incidents of mass violence leave lasting scars on communities, particularly when they occur in schools. The tragedy in Tumbler Ridge has shaken not only a small Canadian town but also drawn global expressions of solidarity. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting affected families and ensuring safety measures that protect educational spaces worldwide.