Canada School Shooting Leaves 12-Year-Old Girl in Critical Condition

Maya Gebala was airlifted to Vancouver Children’s Hospital after sustaining gunshot wounds to the head and neck. Her mother, Cia Edmonds, described the scene as “unreal” and asked for prayers. “Today started as any other. Now, however, my 12-year-old daughter is fighting for her life while they try to repair the damage from a gunshot wound to the head, and one to the neck,” Edmonds said.

The attack occurred at the secondary school, which enrolls approximately 175 students. Emergency alerts described the shooter as “a female in a dress with brown hair.” Authorities confirmed the shooter was found dead at the school, but have not released the identity or motive behind the attack.

At least 24 students and staff were injured during the shooting. Ten people, including the shooter, were confirmed dead. Two additional bodies were discovered at a nearby residence believed to be connected to the school shooting.

Authorities are withholding further details about the victims until families have been notified, citing Canadian privacy laws.

Immediate Response and Evacuation

Video footage shows students walking out of the school with their hands raised while RCMP vehicles surrounded the building and a helicopter circled overhead.

Officers reportedly arrived within two minutes of the first emergency call, according to British Columbia Premier David Eby.

“Police responded immediately, and the safety of students and staff was our top priority,” said RCMP Superintendent Ken Floyd. Floyd confirmed investigators are examining the connection between the shooter and victims, while seeking to understand the motive behind the attack.

Mayor Darryl Krakowka described the community as “devastated” following the shooting. Tumbler Ridge, home to approximately 2,700 residents, is widely regarded as a safe and close-knit community. “I have lived here for 18 years. I probably know every one of the victims,” Krakowka said.

The secondary school and elementary school will remain closed for the rest of the week. Counseling services have been made available for students, families, and staff affected by the shooting.

Victim Profile and Community Support

Maya Gebala, a student critically injured in the attack, is known in her community for her athletic talent, playing as a defender for the Tumbler Ridge Raptors under-13 ice hockey team. Family members reported she was struck by shrapnel, though the extent of her injuries remains under medical review.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Maya’s mother during the recovery period. Her aunt, Marta Batten, described the emotional toll: “There are no words for the fear and pain our family is feeling in this moment.”

The local community mobilized quickly, providing donations, meals, and emotional support. Mental health professionals have been deployed to help students and staff cope with the trauma.

National Reactions and Government Response

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed grief on social media. “I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed irreversibly today, and in gratitude for the courage and selflessness of the first responders who risked their lives to protect their fellow citizens,” he wrote.

This incident comes amid ongoing national debates over gun control. Canada has banned certain firearms, including assault-style weapons, following prior mass shootings. The deadliest previous mass shooting in Canada occurred in 2020 in Nova Scotia, where 22 people died in combined shootings and fires.

Authorities emphasized that the investigation will focus on public safety, support for victims, and preventing future incidents.

Tumbler Ridge: A Close-Knit Community

Tumbler Ridge, located approximately 736 miles north of Vancouver, is known for its natural landscapes including lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The area has UNESCO Global Geopark status due to hundreds of dinosaur tracks and fossils.

Residents described the town as a community where “everyone knows everyone,” highlighting the profound shock following the shooting. Local authorities and emergency responders are coordinating support and assessing the community’s needs.

School Safety and Policy Implications

The shooting has renewed discussions on school safety measures and gun control. Experts note rural communities face challenges due to limited emergency resources. RCMP Superintendent Floyd confirmed that the investigation includes how the shooter obtained the firearm and if any lapses occurred in local security. Emergency response protocols are under review.

Mental Health and Recovery

Mental health specialists emphasize crisis counseling, peer support, and long-term therapy for students, families, and first responders affected by traumatic events.

For Maya Gebala, medical teams are stabilizing her condition and repairing life-threatening injuries. No recovery timeline has been established, but her transport to Vancouver marked a critical milestone.

Mass Shootings in Canada

Canada has experienced several mass shootings over the past two decades, with victims ranging from children to adults. Government authorities periodically introduce firearm regulations, but debates about their effectiveness continue.

The Tumbler Ridge shooting underscores challenges in protecting educational institutions, especially in smaller communities with limited emergency resources.

Community Solidarity and Healing

Tumbler Ridge residents are uniting to support victims and families. Vigils and memorial services are being planned, with schools, churches, and civic organizations offering spaces for mourning. Mayor Krakowka stated, “While this tragedy has shaken us to our core, Tumbler Ridge will come together to support those affected and honor the memory of those lost.”

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Schools announced plans to implement trauma-informed programs and enhanced security measures. Mental health hotlines and counseling services remain accessible.