What We Know About the Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia School Shooting

Authorities in British Columbia are continuing to investigate one of the deadliest school shootings in recent Canadian history after violence erupted Tuesday in the small town of Tumbler Ridge.

According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, an 18-year-old suspect is believed to have first killed two family members at a residence before going to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where multiple victims were shot. Police say at least eight people were killed and roughly 25 others were injured in the two locations.

Officers responded to reports of an active shooter at the school shortly after 1:20 p.m. local time. Within minutes, a lockdown was announced and students barricaded themselves inside classrooms. Authorities later issued a shelter-in-place order for the community.

Police say the suspect was found deceased inside the school with what appeared to be a self-inflicted injury. Officials have said there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Among those killed were a teacher and several students, as well as two relatives of the suspect at the residence. Many of the victims were young, including several 12-year-olds. Two individuals who were airlifted to the hospital remain in serious condition.

The suspect had previously come to the attention of law enforcement in connection with mental health concerns. Authorities say firearms had been seized from the home in the past but were later returned after a petition by the owner.

Flags across Canada have been lowered to half-staff, and leaders in Parliament observed a moment of silence. British Columbia has declared a day of mourning as the tight-knit mountain community begins to grieve.

Tumbler Ridge, founded in the 1980s as a coal mining town, is home to just a few thousand residents. Officials say support services are being made available to students, families and first responders as the investigation continues.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.