British Columbia’s chief coroner says he will direct an inquest into last month’s deadly mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge.
Dr. Jatinder Baidwan made the announcement in Victoria Tuesday morning.
Baidwan says he recognizes the profound loss that Tumbler Ridge is experiencing after “what is now one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history.”
Careful reflection on the events of the shooting and the widespread discussion about mental health and public safety that it prompted, he says, encouraged his decision.
The chief coroner says the inquest will provide an “open, independent forum to examine the circumstances surrounding the nine deaths, identify any systemic or procedural issues, and make evidence-based recommendations aimed at preventing similar loss of life in the future.”
Baidwan says an announcement with more details of the timing of the inquest will be provided following an investigative phase.
This is a developing story.