Photo: Nina Krieger at a news conference shortly after the incident. Screenshot- Marc Nixon/X

A deadly shooting at a secondary school in Tumbler Ridge has left 10 people dead and more than two dozen injured, sending shockwaves through the small northeastern British Columbia community.

RCMP said officers responded shortly after 1 p.m. to reports of an active shooter inside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Police located multiple victims inside the building. Investigators said the suspected gunman was found dead at the scene from what appears to be a self-inflicted injury.

Authorities confirmed additional victims were discovered at a nearby residence connected to the incident. In total, 10 people are dead and more than 25 others were injured, some with serious wounds requiring transport to larger centres for treatment.

Early accounts circulating online have identified the suspected gunman as transgender. Police have not publicly confirmed details about the individual’s identity. Investigators believe the two people found dead at the nearby residence were related to the suspect. Officials cautioned that information remains preliminary as the investigation continues.

An emergency alert issued during the incident instructed residents to shelter in place. The alert was lifted later in the day once police secured the scene and determined there was no ongoing threat to the public.

Schools in the district will remain closed for the rest of the week as students, staff and families grapple with the aftermath of one of the deadliest school shootings in Canadian history.

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.