By The Canadian Press

Tumbler Ridge killings prompts very different start to B.C. legislative session

Feb 12, 2026 | 4:15 PM

VICTORIA — There was no red-carpet, no band or the usual 15-gun salute for British Columbia Lt. Gov. Wendy Cocchia when she entered the legislature Thursday to read the speech from the throne.

Instead, she dedicated her speech to the people of Tumbler Ridge, B.C., saying that they are “suffering unimaginable pain.”

Governments traditionally use the speech of a new legislative session to outline their agendas, but Cocchia’s brief speech said the “people of Tumbler Ridge are wrapped in the care and compassion of an entire province and a country that mourns along them.”

MLAs closed the preceding legislative session on Thursday with a minute of silence for the eight people, mostly children, who were killed and dozens more hurt in the shootings both at the local high school and the home of the killer.

The speech from the throne says the thoughts of British Columbians “are with the victims, their loved ones, and a tight-knit community suffering unimaginable pain.”

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The speech, which was just minutes long, says that government is “profoundly grateful to the first responders, health care workers, teachers, and school staff whose courage and swift action helped save lives.”

Cocchia says their “service reflects the very best of our province” and that in “times of sorrow, British Columbians come together.”

While the lieutenant-governor represents the King, she said on a personal note that her heart aches for the families and students, and that as a mother, “it’s impossible to comprehend the pain and grief” that comes from seeing somebody off for the day, without them coming home.

The three official parties in the Legislature agreed after the shooting rampage that the speech would not be “traditional.”

Cocchia also departed from the speaking text, when she urged British Columbians to follow the advice of Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka, who said people could help those in his community by giving out hugs.

“I think that is very wise, because at a time of deep grief, often we retreat and we withdraw,” she said. “But what often helps the healing process as well is connectivity. I want the people of Tumbler Ridge to know unequivocally that we are always here for you and that we will always have a hug waiting for you.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 12, 2026.

Wolfgang Depner, The Canadian Press