FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa – February 12, 2026 – Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak (LFMO) is deeply heartbroken by the tragic loss of life in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia.
We mourn the educator, the young students, and the family members whose lives were taken in an act of devastating violence. We also acknowledge the profound tragedy surrounding the loss of the suspect’s mother and sibling, whose deaths underscore the far-reaching and complex impacts of violence within families and communities. Our hearts are with the families, classmates, teachers and the entire community as they face unimaginable grief.
“When children are harmed, the whole community is wounded,” said Melanie Omeniho, President of LFMO. “As Métis women, as mothers, aunties and kokums, we are holding the people of Tumbler Ridge in our prayers. Family violence continues to affect far too many of our communities, and we must ensure that sustained mental health supports and meaningful prevention efforts are in place so our children can learn and grow in safety.”
LFMO stands in solidarity with Tumbler Ridge and calls for long-term, culturally grounded supports to help the community heal in the days and years ahead.