In a tragic incident in northwestern Canada, a school shooting has claimed at least nine lives.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Tumbler Ridge reported that they responded to an emergency situation involving an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School around 1:20 p.m. local time (8:20 a.m. AEDT).

Upon entering the school, officers discovered several victims in addition to a person they identified as the shooter.

The suspected gunman was found deceased at the scene, having died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

According to a statement from the RCMP, six individuals were pronounced dead inside the school, with another succumbing to injuries en route to the hospital.

“Two victims were airlifted to the hospital with critical injuries, while approximately 25 others are receiving evaluation and treatment for non-life-threatening injuries at the local medical center,” the statement added.

Authorities also confirmed they found two people dead at another location, believed to have been connected to the incident.

Police are conducting further searches of nearby homes to determine whether there are anymore injuries related to today’s events.

All other staff and students at the school were safely evacuated, with police looking to reunite children with their families.

“Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this tragic incident,” RCMP Superintendent Ken Floyd said. “Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this tragic incident.

“This has been an incredibly difficult and emotional day for our community, and we are grateful for the cooperation shown as officers continue their work to advance the investigation.”

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