The community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, continues to grapple with grief following the devastating school shooting that claimed eight lives earlier this month. Amid the heartbreak, there is a small sign of hope: one of the surviving victims, 19-year-old Paige Hoekstra, may soon be well enough to return home.

However, another young survivor, 12-year-old Maya Gebala, remains in critical condition at a Vancouver hospital as her family waits anxiously for signs of improvement.

Authorities, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), are continuing their investigation into the tragedy.

Paige Hoekstra Expected to Return Home After Surgery

Paige Hoekstra, 19, was shot in the chest during the Feb. 10 shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. She was airlifted to a Vancouver hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery last week.

In an update posted to her GoFundMe page on Feb. 16, her family shared encouraging news. Doctors are now confident that it is safe for Paige to return home to Tumbler Ridge, though logistics are still being arranged.

“Our family is so incredibly lucky to be able to share this little bit of good news with everyone who was worried for Paige,” the family wrote in the update.

They added that they are working closely with her medical team to determine the safest way to transport her back home. The family also extended heartfelt support to other families affected by the shooting.

“To the other families affected, if there is ANYTHING our family can do to support you, even just a shoulder to cry on, please let us know,” the statement read.

Paige’s potential return home offers a rare moment of relief for a community that has been shaken to its core.

12-Year-Old Maya Gebala Remains in Delicate Condition

While Paige’s condition is improving, 12-year-old Maya Gebala continues to fight for her life at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver.

Maya was reportedly attempting to lock the school library door to protect her classmates when shots rang out around 1 p.m. on Feb. 10. Her bravery has deeply moved the community.

According to family members, Maya underwent surgery to address a brain bleed and severe swelling. A bullet remains lodged in her head above her left eye, and another is in her neck. Doctors are prioritizing treatment of her brain injury before addressing other complications.

Her mother has remained at her bedside since the shooting. In an emotional message posted to GoFundMe, she described the agonizing uncertainty surrounding her daughter’s prognosis.

“I think the gravity of what’s happened has finally sunk in… I’ve been staring at my sweet Maya moon for the past six days,” she wrote.

“My baby is in there… but how much is left.”

Family members say it will take time to understand the full extent of Maya’s injuries and the potential for recovery.

 People Killed in the Mass Shooting

The shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School resulted in the deaths of eight individuals. Among the victims were five students and one educational assistant. The other two victims were identified as the shooter’s mother and half-brother.

Police confirmed that the suspect was later found dead at the scene from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The RCMP has stated that the investigation remains ongoing. In addition, British Columbia’s Independent Investigations Office has confirmed it is reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Authorities have not yet released full details regarding the motive.

Temporary Classrooms to Be Installed

As the town mourns, efforts are underway to support students and staff in the aftermath of the tragedy.

The Peace River South School District announced that students will not return to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Instead, temporary classroom units are being set up on the grounds of Tumbler Ridge Elementary School.

The provincial government has confirmed that the modular units are expected to arrive soon. Crews will need several days to install utilities, heating systems, and furnishings before classes can resume. No official return date has been announced.

Officials say ensuring students’ physical safety and emotional well-being is the top priority before reopening any learning spaces.

A Community United in Grief and Support

The small northern B.C. community has held vigils and memorials to honor the victims. Residents have rallied around the affected families, organizing fundraisers and offering emotional support.

Messages of solidarity have flooded social media, reflecting the deep impact the shooting has had on Tumbler Ridge.

While investigators continue their work, the focus for many remains on the survivors — especially Paige Hoekstra and Maya Gebala.

For Paige’s family, the hope of bringing her home represents a meaningful step forward.

For Maya’s loved ones, they continue to hold onto hope, waiting for a sign that their daughter will open her eyes once again.