Demolition of Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in northeastern British Columbia commenced on Monday, several months after a tragic mass shooting incident.
On February 10, the school experienced one of Canada’s most devastating mass shootings, resulting in the loss of five children and an educational assistant.
In the weeks leading up to the demolition, crews have been systematically removing items from the school using covered trucks in preparation for its dismantling.
A memorial honoring the victims of the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School mass shooting. (Matt Preprost/CBC)
According to School District 59 superintendent Christy Fennell, this marks a significant step in the careful, phased removal of the existing structure, a process that is projected to last several additional weeks.
Following the removal of the building, efforts will continue throughout the fall to restore the area to a grassy landscape.
Demolition equipment is actively dismantling the school building. Crews have been clearing out its contents in preparation for the physical teardown. (CBC News)
The school district has indicated that the demolition will be executed in phases to limit any disturbances.
Waste generated from the demolition will be transported to regional landfills and will not remain within the community to safeguard residents’ privacy, according to officials.
In May, Premier David Eby revealed intentions to expedite the replacement of the school at a yet-to-be-disclosed location.
The federal and provincial governments have pledged $200 million for the new school and enhancements to the local health center.
With a population of approximately 2,400, Tumbler Ridge’s secondary school served about 160 students in grades 7 through 12, including a college campus.
One of several modular classroom pods set up for Tumbler Ridge secondary students while plans are developed for a new school. (Matt Preprost/CBC)
In the aftermath of the shooting, temporary portable classrooms have been established on the premises of the local elementary school.
Additional modular facilities, including restrooms, offices, counseling areas, and a meeting space, are scheduled to arrive for the 2026-27 school year.
The school district intends to engage with students and community members regarding conceptual designs for a new secondary school in the upcoming fall.
Subscribe to CBC’s Fort St. John Weekly for a roundup of the best news and stories from B.C.’s Peace and Northern Rockies.
