Canadian Football League, B.C. Lions mourn Tumbler Ridge tragedy

Courtesy: Thomas Skrlj/CFL.

The Canadian Football League and some of its member clubs have offered messages of support following a mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.

“The Canadian Football League is devastated by the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.,” the league wrote in a statement. “On behalf of our teams, players, and staff across the country, we extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, to the students and educators affected, and to the entire Tumbler Ridge community. The CFL mourns with you.”

On Tuesday, two individuals were killed at a private residence before another eight were slain at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, including the suspect. The CBC has reported that at least 25 people were injured during the attack, two of whom were airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries.

“The B.C. Lions are deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic events at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School,” wrote the team. “Our organization extends its sympathy and love to all of those impacted by this tragedy.”

“MLSE is terribly saddened by the horrific events yesterday in Tumbler Ridge,” wrote Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, which owns the Toronto Argonauts among other teams. “On behalf of the organization and its teams, (MLSE) extends its deepest condolences and prayers to the community and entire province. May you feel the love and support from Canadians coast to coast as we grieve together in the wake of this terrible tragedy.”

“Sending love to all the families, loved ones, and the entire community of Tumbler Ridge,” wrote the Saskatchewan Roughriders in a statement.

“(We) are deeply saddened by the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.,” wrote the Montreal Alouettes. “We send our heartfelt condolences to everyone affected, especially the families and friends grieving unimaginable loss. Our thoughts are with the entire community during this incredibly difficult time.”

“(We are) deeply saddened by the tragic events that took place in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.,” wrote the CFL Players’ Association. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected, and we stand in solidarity with the entire community during this incredibly difficult time.”

“(We) join the country in mourning the devastating tragedy that took place in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.,” wrote CSEC, which owns the Calgary Stampeders among other teams. “We extend our deepest condolences to those who lost a loved one on Tuesday and we’re sending our love and support to everyone impacted by this tragic event.”

Tumbler Ridge is home to approximately 2,500 residents and is located in northeast British Columbia near the Alberta border.

“Our hearts are in Tumbler Ridge tonight with the families of those who have lost loved ones,” wrote B.C. premier David Eby. “Government will ensure every possible support for community members in the coming days, as we all try to come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy.”

Editor’s note: this article will be updated with more statements from CFL teams should they be released.