World leaders react to Tumbler Ridge shooting, Canada lowers flags to half-mast

Condolences are pouring in from international leaders after the horrific school shooting in the small community of Tumbler Ridge, B.C.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has directed all Canadian government buildings to lower flags to half-mast.

“Following yesterday’s tragic shootings in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., I have asked that Canada’s flag atop the Peace Tower, and across all government buildings, be flown at half-mast for the next seven days as our nation mourns with the community,” Carney posted on social media.

The shootings at the high school in Tumbler Ridge on Tuesday, Feb. 10, left 10 people dead, including the shooter. Two of the dead were found at a separate location. Two people were airlifted to the hospital, and another 25 were assessed and triaged locally. The RCMP is expected to provide another update at 11:30 a.m.

Members of the Royal family were among those expressing sympathy and sadness in public statements. King Charles said he and Queen Camilla were “profoundly shocked” by the news.

“We can only express our deepest possible sympathy to the families who are grieving the unimaginable loss of their loved ones and those still awaiting news from hospital,” the King posted on social media.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he was “deeply shaken” by the news.

“Our thoughts are with the people of Tumbler Ridge as they mourn their families, friends, and loved ones,” Merz said in a social media post. “I wish those who were injured a swift recovery.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed the same, saying he was “deeply shocked and saddened.”

“Australian hearts go out to the families and friends of the victims, and we are all thinking of those injured,” he posted on social media.

Back in Canada, Official Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre said his “prayers are with the families, students, teachers, first responders and the entire community grieving this profound loss.”

“Devastated to hear of the many innocent people murdered and injured in a senseless act of violence at a local high school in Tumbler Ridge,” he posted on social media.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has directed her province’s flags to be lowered to half-mast for seven days as well.

“In times of profound tragedy, Canadians come together, we support our neighbours, our communities, and do everything we can to help each other move forward together,” she wrote on social media.

Premier David Eby appeared on Tuesday evening and said it was time to “wrap these families with love” as they deal with this tragedy. He is expected to travel to the community, but his travel itinerary has not yet been made available.