Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement regarding the shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia:

“The heartbreaking news from Tumbler Ridge has left many of us in the Northwest Territories deeply saddened. On behalf of Northerners, I extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, to those who were injured, and to the students, educators, and first responders facing the aftermath of this horrific act.

“In small towns across Canada, we understand how closely connected communities are -how schools are gathering places, and how deeply a loss like this is felt by everyone. In times like these, Canadians come together in empathy and support. We stand with the people of Tumbler Ridge, sharing in their sorrow and holding them in our thoughts.”