A mother in Canada says her 12-year-old daughter may not survive following a mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School that left eight people dead and more than two dozen others injured.

Maya Gebala was among the students and teachers wounded during the attack. According to her mother, Cia Edmonds, doctors have warned that the brain damage caused by the gunshot wounds to Maya’s head and neck is severe.

“We were warned that the damage to her brain was too much for her to endure, and she wouldn’t make the night,” Edmonds said Wednesday afternoon. Despite the grim prognosis, she described remaining close to her daughter, expressing hope during an uncertain wait. “I can feel her in my heart. I can feel her saying it’s going to be OK… she’s here… for how long we don’t know,” she said.

Police identified the suspected shooter as 18-year-old Jesse Strang. Authorities stated that Strang opened fire inside the school, killing eight individuals before taking his own life. At least two dozen students and staff members were reported wounded in the attack.

Investigators confirmed that Strang was born male and began identifying as a girl at age 12. Officials have not publicly indicated that gender identity was connected to a motive for the shooting. Law enforcement agencies continue to examine the circumstances leading up to the incident, including how the suspect obtained the weapon and whether there were warning signs prior to the attack.

The shooting unfolded during regular school hours, prompting an immediate emergency response. First responders transported victims to nearby medical facilities while law enforcement secured the campus. Parents were notified as authorities worked to account for students and staff.

Community members gathered outside the school and at local hospitals throughout the day, seeking updates on loved ones. Counseling services have since been made available to students, families, and faculty affected by the tragedy.

Officials have not yet released the names of all eight individuals killed. Authorities stated that families are being notified before additional details are made public. The identities of several injured victims, including Maya Gebala, were shared by relatives.

Medical professionals involved in treating the wounded described a range of injuries, from minor to critical. In cases involving gunshot wounds to the head and neck, survival often depends on the extent of trauma to vital structures, including the brain and spinal cord. Physicians treating Maya reportedly indicated that the damage was extensive.

Law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigation into the timeline of events. Preliminary information suggests the suspect acted alone. Authorities have not disclosed whether Strang had a prior criminal record or previous interactions with school administrators. Officials have urged the public to refrain from speculation while evidence is reviewed.

School officials issued a statement expressing condolences to the families of those killed and injured. The district announced that classes would be suspended temporarily as the community mourns and as safety assessments are conducted.

Local leaders have called for unity and support in the aftermath of the tragedy. Vigils are being organized to honor the victims and provide space for collective grieving. Mental health professionals emphasize the importance of early intervention for those exposed to traumatic events, particularly children and adolescents.

National attention has focused on the broader issue of school safety. While Canada has historically experienced fewer school shootings than some other countries, incidents of gun violence have prompted ongoing discussions about prevention strategies, mental health resources, and firearm regulations.

Authorities have stated that a full review of the events will take time. Investigators are expected to analyze digital communications, interview witnesses, and examine the suspect’s background. Updates will be released as confirmed information becomes available.

For now, families wait. In hospital rooms and gathering spaces across the community, loved ones remain by the sides of the injured. For Cia Edmonds, that wait is marked by uncertainty and hope. Her daughter remains under medical care as doctors monitor her condition.

The coming hours are expected to be critical. Officials have not provided further medical updates regarding Maya’s status. As the investigation continues, attention remains on the victims and their families