Nation mourns as 12-year-old Zambian boy among victims of Canada school shooting

A 12-year-old Zambian boy, Abel Mwansa Junior, has been confirmed among the victims of a mass shooting at a school in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, Canada, on February 10.

Canadian police said nine people were killed and 25 others injured in two related shooting incidents at the school and at a nearby home.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, the boy’s father, Pastor Abel Mwansa Senior, said his son had left home that morning for school, mentioning that he would be attending a youth meeting and asked to be picked up later.

Pastor Mwansa said the family was devastated to learn that Abel Junior had been shot and killed in the attack, which also left the suspect dead.

He recalled spending time with his son shortly before the tragedy, saying they had gone out for dinner and talked about Abel’s passion for school.

“He was a great son, and I treasured the moments I spent with him,” Pastor Mwansa wrote.

He also expressed confusion and sorrow over Abel’s request, made four days earlier, for his sister to sing the song “Die with a Smile.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, sent a message of condolences to the Mwansa family, describing the shooting as a “profound shock.”

“The Government of the Republic of Zambia has learned with profound shock of the tragic mass shooting that occurred on 10 February 2026 at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School… an incident that cost the lives of innocent individuals, including children,” Haimbe said.

He said the government’s thoughts and prayers were with the Tumbler Ridge community as it seeks healing following the tragedy.

Haimbe described the death of the young Zambian as heartbreaking, saying a promising life had been cut short.

“We extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the bereaved families… We join the people and Government of Canada in mourning this devastating loss,” he said.

The minister reaffirmed Zambia’s support for global efforts to strengthen safety and security and prevent such acts of violence.

“To Abel’s parents… the entire family and indeed Zambia at large, we offer our sincere condolences and be share in our collective grief. We honour his memory and the joy he brought to those who knew him,” he added.

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