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Important information about available support for those who need it is included at the end of this message |
Mourning The Victims of The Tumbler Ridge Tragedy
Like so many of you, I am heartbroken by the horrific and devastating act of violence that occurred in Tumbler Ridge earlier this week. I have spent the past day trying to process what happened, and there is so much that still feels impossible to say.
As a parent, I keep thinking about the families who dropped their children off at school that morning and never imagined it would be the last time. There are truly no words to capture that loss. We mourn a teacher, a mother and a stepbrother and five young students – three girls, all 12 years old, and two boys, ages 12 and 13. They were children, and they were all deeply loved.
I want to acknowledge all those directly affected by this tragedy, the parents, brothers, sisters, classmates, friends, teachers, school staff, and the entire community of Tumbler Ridge. I also want to recognize the first responders, healthcare professionals, and community members who responded and who continue to support those who survived and those who are still trying to process such incredible grief.
When something like this happens, it doesn’t stay in one place. The grief has been felt well beyond Tumbler Ridge, touching people across Canada and around the world. Tragedies like this affect all of us, reaching into our homes, our schools, our workplaces, and our hearts.
I hope we can hold onto what matters most right now. This is not a moment for division or blame, or for debating policies or solutions. There will be time for reflection and difficult conversations later. For now, this is a time to be present for and to support one another, to be there with care and compassion, and to hold space for grief – to cry, to feel, and to remember the lives that have been taken from us.
As we head into the Family Day long weekend, I know this time may feel different or difficult for many. I hope it can still be an opportunity to ground ourselves, to spend time with our families, to hug our children, and to tell the people in our lives how much they mean to us. Moments like this remind us of what truly matters and not to take those things for granted.
If you or someone you care about needs support, crisis and mental health resources are available at:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/youth-and-family-services/tumbler-ridge
To the people of Tumbler Ridge: we are thinking of you and holding you in our hearts.
With care,
Suzanne Solven
Registrar & CEO