Tributes and condolences continue to pour in from around the world in honour of the victims of Tuesday’s mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge.
Tributes were delivered in the House of Commons in Ottawa by politicians of all political parties who have united in solidarity in the wake of the tragedy. A moment of silence was held and MPs have been signing a book of condolences for Tumbler Ridge. Prime Minister Mark Carney had cancelled his planned trips abroad to remain in the country, and called for flags to be lowered to half mast for a week.
Here in BC, the Legislature has cancelled its planned throne speech for today, held a moment of silence and declared February 12th a day of mourning in BC.
In Tumbler Ridge, a candlelight vigil was held last night with hundreds in attendance, including Premier David Eby, who said the tragedy would reverberate for years.
Meanwhile Provincial leaders from across the country have offered their condolences as well, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford saying Ontario stands with BC, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew calling it an unthinkable tragedy and reassuring the community that the nation mourns with them, while Alberta had done the same and lowered it’s flags to half mast
Other heads of state, like French President Emmanuel Macron, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and even King Charles had offered words of support.
In a release from the royal family, King Charles had said in part; ‘In such a closely connected town, every child’s name will be known and every family will be a neighbour. We can only begin to imagine the appalling shadow that has now descended across Tumbler Ridge and our hearts go out to all those whose lives have been so shattered by this senseless act of brutal violence.’
The King adds, he and Queen Camilla both stand with Tumbler ridge and all Canadians, as the country and community seek understanding, healing and strength in the days ahead.
In Toronto, the CN Tower had dimmed its light for 5 minutes at the top of every hour last night in honour of the victims of Tuesday’s mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge.
Even Olympic athletes and their managers taking part in Winter Games in Milan have offered their words of support, including a message from the Canadian Olympic Committee itself, and statements from Men’s Hockey GM Doug Armstrong, who said real life trumps anything underway at the games. While Hockey Head Coach Jon Cooper, who was raised in Prince George and had spent time in Tumbler Ridge in the past, said this hits close to home, and his heart goes out to all the families.
