‘Ontario stands ready to support’: Doug Ford, GTA leaders react to deadly B.C. shooting

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and other GTA officials are expressing shock and solidarity following a mass shooting in northeastern British Columbia that left 10 people dead and more than two dozen injured.

The violence in the small community of Tumbler Ridge — already being described as one of the worst mass shootings in Canadian history — has prompted condolences, flag-lowering orders and symbolic tributes from officials and organizations across the Greater Toronto Area.

Mounties say they received reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time Tuesday. By the end of the day, 10 were dead, many of whom were found at the local high school.

• A list of Canadian school shootings

The tragedy has spread far beyond the Peace River region, drawing responses from political leaders and institutions across the world.

“My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones and everyone who was impacted by the terrible shooting that took place yesterday in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.,” Ford said in a statement.

“I’m praying for a full recovery for all those who were injured in the attack. Ontario stands ready to support the people of British Columbia however we can.”

Tumbler Ridge, located in northeastern B.C.’s Peace River region, has a population of about 2,400. Its secondary school has roughly 160 students, according to School District 59.

Police say six people were found dead inside the school. One additional victim died while being transported to hospital.

Two others were airlifted from the school with serious injuries. Approximately 25 additional people were treated at a local clinic for non-life-threatening injuries.

Two more victims were later found dead inside a home police believe is connected to the shooting. Officers are continuing to search additional homes and properties to determine whether anyone else may have been harmed.

‘Toronto mourns with you’

In a statement posted to social media, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed her gratitude to the first responders who “arrived within two minutes and saved lives through their courage.”

“Our hearts are breaking for the people of Tumbler Ridge. Families and loved ones have been forever changed, she said. ”To the parents, grandparents, and siblings who woke up without someone they love, Toronto mourns with you. Canada mourns with you. You are not alone."

“We want to wrap your entire community in love, not just today, but in all the days ahead...Our gratitude goes to the first responders who arrived within two minutes and saved lives through their courage.”

Toronto police service

Speaking at a separate press conference, Deputy Lauren Pogue of the Toronto police offered condolences on behalf of Chief Myron Demkiw and the entire police service.

“Our thoughts are certainly with Tumbler Ridge today,” she said. “I want to also acknowledge our fellow police officers and first responders in British Columbia for their courage and professionalism.”

Flags lowered in Vaughan

Vaughan Ont. Mayor Steven Del Duca called the news “absolutely heartbreaking” in a statement posted to social media.

“My thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and friends of the victims,” Del Duca said.

“I’ve asked for flags at all City of Vaughan facilities to be lowered to half-mast in memory of those impacted by this tragic mass shooting. Its impact is felt across the country, and Vaughan holds the people of Tumbler Ridge in our hearts.”

Symbolic tributes in Toronto

In Toronto, the CN Tower said it would dim for five minutes at the top of each hour Tuesday night in honour of the victims.

“Tonight the CNTower will dim for 5 minutes at the top of each hour in honour of the victims of the attack in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia,” the organization said.

The Toronto Blue Jays also issued a statement expressing condolences.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events in Tumbler Ridge, BC, and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and the entire Tumbler Ridge community. We stand with you in support during this time of unbearable grief and mourning,” the statement reads.

Police in British Columbia say the investigation remains ongoing.

This is a developing story, more details to come...