February 17,2026
RED FM News Desk
British Columbia’s police watchdog says it is assessing whether it will launch an investigation into the mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge.
The Independent Investigations Office (IIO) has the authority to investigate incidents involving death or serious harm that may be connected to police actions or inactions. Chief Civilian Director Jessica Berglund said investigators have been assigned to review evidence and determine whether the office’s mandate applies before deciding if a full investigation will proceed.
Berglund noted the IIO’s review is separate from any RCMP or other agency investigations. If no link is found between the tragedy and police conduct, the watchdog will not move forward with a formal probe. The IIO has not released details about the focus of its preliminary review.
Questions remain about the firearms used in the attack, including whether any were previously seized by RCMP from the suspect’s family home and later returned.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to support the Tumbler Ridge community as it recovers. The provincial government says portable classrooms will be brought in so students at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School do not have to return to the building where six people — five students and one educator — were killed. A date for the resumption of classes has not yet been set.
One survivor, Paige Hoekstra, is returning home after doctors determined she is stable following surgery. Her family expressed deep gratitude for the support they’ve received and offered help to other affected families.
Another survivor, 12-year-old Maya Gebala, remains in a Vancouver hospital with significant brain injuries. The shooting claimed nine lives in total, including the lone suspect.
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