TUMBLER RIDGE, the individual alleged to be responsible for the deadly shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in northeastern British Columbia has been identified by a close family member as Jesse Strang, though authorities have not formally confirmed the suspect’s identity.
According to Juno News, Russell G. Strang, identified as the suspect’s uncle, stated that Jesse Strang was responsible for the attack. Law enforcement officials have not verified that claim and have urged the public to rely only on confirmed information as the investigation continues.
Online material reviewed by media outlets reportedly includes a public social media account believed to belong to the suspect. Police have not confirmed details about the account or any personal background information.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said nine people were killed in the violence, including the suspected gunman, and more than two dozen others were injured.
Police said the suspected shooter died from what investigators believe was a self-inflicted injury.
Gunfire was first reported at approximately 1:20 p.m. at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Responding officers located six victims deceased inside the school, and a seventh victim later died while being transported to a hospital.
Two additional victims were airlifted to medical facilities with serious or life-threatening injuries. Authorities said about 25 other individuals were assessed for injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
During the investigation, officers identified what they described as a secondary location connected to the incident. At that residence, police discovered two more victims who were pronounced dead at the scene.
In a statement, the RCMP said officers are conducting further searches of homes and properties to determine whether anyone else may be injured or otherwise connected to the events.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed sorrow following the attack, saying he was devastated by the shooting and offering condolences to those affected while thanking first responders for their actions.
Tumbler Ridge, a community of roughly 2,400 residents in the Northern Rockies region of British Columbia, is now confronting the aftermath of one of the most significant violent incidents in its history.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to confirm the suspect’s identity, establish a motive, and determine whether any additional factors contributed to the tragedy. Officials continue to urge the public to rely on verified information as further updates are expected.
