B.C.’s chief coroner has announced a public inquest into the deaths of nine people in Tumbler Ridge last month.

In a statement, Dr. Jatinder Baidwan confirmed that an inquest will examine the events of February 10, when two adults and six children were killed, in a private residence and at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.

The deaths prompted widespread coverage across Canada and internationally, along with public discussion around mental health and potential gaps in support systems.

The chief coroner has the authority to order an inquest in cases involving sudden, unnatural or unexpected deaths, including all child deaths.

Baidwan says the decision was made to reinforce public confidence in the system and support public safety in British Columbia.

An inquest is designed to provide an independent and transparent forum to publicly review the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

It can examine possible systemic or procedural issues and result in evidence-based recommendations aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.

The process will include a jury of five to seven members of the public.

The chief coroner also offered condolences to the families and the Tumbler Ridge community, saying the grief that is being experienced is unimaginable.

The BC Coroners Service says it will continue working with families and the community as the investigation continues.

More details about the timing of the inquest are expected once the investigative phase is complete.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.