PM Modi Expresses Shock and Solidarity After Deadly Canada School Shooting
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed profound shock over a horrific school shooting in Canada that resulted in 10 fatalities and offered heartfelt condolences to the grieving families of the victims.
Modi's Message of Condolence and Support
In a post on social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, "Deeply shocked by the horrendous shooting in Canada. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands in solidarity with the people of Canada in this moment of profound grief." The statement highlighted India's diplomatic support during this tragic incident that has shaken the international community.
Details of the Tumbler Ridge School Shooting
The shooting occurred at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia, Canada. According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), eight individuals lost their lives in and around the school premises. This number includes a woman believed to be the shooter, who apparently died from a self-inflicted injury.
Additionally, two more victims were discovered deceased at a nearby residence that authorities believe is connected to the attack, bringing the total death toll to 10 people. The Associated Press news agency confirmed these figures, noting that more than 25 individuals sustained injuries during the violent incident.
Law enforcement officials reported that police officers responded rapidly, arriving at the school within minutes of receiving initial reports about an active shooter situation. The swift response helped secure the area and prevent further casualties.
Investigation and Community Impact
The suspect has been identified as female, though her name has not been publicly released by authorities. Investigators are currently working to determine the motive behind the attack and establish how the victims were connected to the shooter. Police emphasized that the early stages of such incidents are typically chaotic, with multiple reports requiring careful verification.
Shortly after 2 pm local time, an emergency alert was issued urging residents to shelter in place and avoid the affected area as officers secured the scene. The Tumbler Ridge Health Centre declared a Code Orange, indicating a mass casualty emergency, and restricted access while medical teams provided urgent care to the injured.
Tumbler Ridge is a small, tight-knit community of approximately 2,700 residents located in the Canadian Rockies, more than 1,000 kilometers north of Vancouver. The secondary school serves around 175 students from Grades 7 through 12. Community leaders described the tragedy as utterly devastating, noting that many residents personally knew the victims, amplifying the emotional impact across the region.
Canadian Leadership Response and Historical Context
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed being "devastated" by the shootings and offered condolences to the affected families. He also announced the suspension of a planned trip in light of the tragedy. British Columbia Premier David Eby characterized the incident as an "unimaginable tragedy" and called upon people across the province to support the grieving community during this difficult time.
School shootings remain relatively rare occurrences in Canada. This attack is being described as the country's deadliest mass shooting since 2020, when a gunman in Nova Scotia killed 22 people. The incident has reignited discussions about gun violence and community safety measures in Canadian society.
