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Tumbler Ridge and Taber selected as two finalists in Kraft Hockeyville 2026

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Rinks in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia and Taber, Alberta are the two finalists in the Kraft Hockeyville 2026 program.

The two arenas, the Tumbler Ridge Community Centre Arena and the Taber Community Centre, are now going head-to-head for the grand prize of $250,000 for rink upgrades and the opportunity to host a pre-season NHL game.

Tumbler Ridge is the same town that suffered a devastating mass shooting on Feb. 10, 2026, that left nine dead and 27 injured.

In a post on social media, the Tumbler Ridge Minor Hockey Association expressed what the finalist spot means for the community.

“This is HUGE! This is OUR moment,” the post says. “From lifelong residents to families who have only been here for a season, from early mornings at the rink to late night practices, this town has shown what it means to come together. Now we need one final push.”

The Taber Minor Hockey Association, in a post on social media, says they could not be prouder of the finalist spot.

“This is not just about hockey — it’s about community, passion, and the unstoppable spirit of Taber. Let’s keep the energy going and show everyone why our town is truly a hockey town!”

The posts from both associations go on to thank everyone who supported their towns in making it to the two finalist spots.

Voting for this year’s Kraft Hockeyville grand prize winner will begin on April 3, 2026, at 10 a.m. Eastern time.

To learn more, visit the Kraft Hockeyville website.

rcmp flash

UPDATE: 9 dead including suspect in B.C. school shooting

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Eight people were killed in one of the deadliest school shootings in Canadian history.

That includes three girls and two boys between the ages of 13 and 17 and one female teacher at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in B.C.

RCMP Deputy commissioner Dwayne McDonald identified the shooter as 18-year-old woman Jesse Van Rootselaar of Tumbler Ridge.

“Two firearms, a long gun and modified handgun were recovered by responding officers. Determining the origin of these firearms and what role they played in the shootings remain a significant part of the ongoing and active investigation,” said the deputy commissioner.

The shooter also killed her mother and step-brother at a separate residence.

RCMP responded to the school within two minutes, and were met with gunfire from inside the school.

The suspect is believed to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Over 100 students and faculty were evacuated to a nearby recreation centre once RCMP determined it was safe.

Twenty-five people were injured, two were airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The initial death toll was 10, RCMP believed one of those airlifted had died, but she is in serious condition.

“This is a deeply distressing incident, where nine individuals have essentially lost their lives. Our thoughts are with the first responders, the families and everyone in the greater Tumbler Ridge community.”

Deputy commissioner McDonald says it’s believed the suspect acted alone.

Condolences from world leaders, Parliament Hill

Prime Minister Mark Carney and other party leaders spoke in the House of Commons about the tragedy, and offered their condolences.

“Parents, grandparents, sisters and brothers woke up today in Tumbler Ridge without someone they love,” said Carney.

“The nation mourns with you, Canada stands by you.”

The PM ordered all flags at government buildings will be flown at half-mast for the next seven days.