In the wake of a tragic mass shooting at a high school in a remote town in British Columbia, the community has united to pay tribute to the victims.
Tonight, a solemn vigil is taking place at a central square in Tumbler Ridge, drawing a large crowd who have come together, holding lights in memory of the lives lost.
Despite freezing temperatures, people have gathered to show their support and solidarity in the face of this devastating event.
The shooting, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon, led to the loss of nine lives, including the suspected shooter, and left around 25 people injured.
Among the victims are five students from Tumbler Ridge Secondary School – three girls, two boys, and a 39-year-old female teacher from the school.
Tragically, the suspect’s mother and 11-year-old step-brother were also identified as victims of the shooting.
As the community mourns and begins the healing process, numerous individuals, including local, provincial, and federal leaders, are expected to arrive in Tumbler Ridge this evening.
While there is uncertainty about the attendance of B.C. Premier David Eby at the vigil, he is anticipated to make a statement to the press at approximately 7 p.m.
Tomorrow has been declared a day of mourning in British Columbia to honor the lives lost in this senseless tragedy.
In light of this, the B.C. Legislature’s scheduled meeting on Thursday has been canceled, and the start of the spring session is being postponed. Instead, MLAs will briefly gather in Victoria for a moment of silence at noon.