Feb 11, 2026
This message contains sensitive content and could be emotional. For crisis supports here in BC please contact the KUU-US Crisis Line at 1-800-588-8717 or visit the First Nations Mental Health and Wellness Support page for additional support services. A complete listing of support services is included at the end of this statement.
Our organizations join others in BC and around the world in grieving the tragic events that occurred in Tumbler Ridge on February 10, 2026. We send our utmost respect and prayers for healing for all survivors, families, first responders, and the entire community.
“During this time of profound grief, I hope we can all carry compassion, empathy, and care in our hearts for those affected. As a mother myself, I feel this loss in a deeply personal way and stand with all the families in Tumbler Ridge in holding space for one another. Please look after yourselves and each other and make use of any healing supports you need.” said Monica McAlduff, CEO, First Nations Heath Authority.
We offer our support as health and wellness partners, parents and loved ones to all those affected by this tragedy and stand ready to assess and provide mental health, healing and trauma-informed wellness supports to First Nation communities if requested.
“The FNHC is saddened by the tragic events that took place in Tumbler Ridge,” said Łučinłc̓uta (Mariah Charleson), Chair, First Nations Health Council. “We stand with the people impacted by this devastating event and all those families who have lost loved ones. We send our deepest condolences to those who are suffering.”
“On behalf of Health Directors and Leads who work in community to support our people I’d like to extend love and prayers to all of those impacted by this tragedy,” said Nauness, Janice George, President, First Nations Health Directors Association. “We stand together in unity and hold one another up in difficult times. I encourage you to reach out for supports to cover the children and families who are suffering with trauma so that they can heal from the pain; and also to take care of yourselves.”
To find individual support nearest to you, please view the FNHA Mental Health Cultural Supports page at Culturally Safe and Trauma-Informed Cultural Services.
Mental health and wellness counselling in BC may be eligible for First Nations Health Benefits coverage. Before booking an appointment with a counsellor, call 1-855-550-5454 or visit fnha.ca/benefits/mental-health to ensure the provider is registered and if the service is eligible for coverage.
With deepest sympathies and healing prayers,
Jack Page, President, Board of Directors
Monica McAlduff, Chief Executive Officer
First Nations Health Authority
Łučinłc̓uta (Mariah Charleson), Chair
First Nations Health Council
Nauness, Janice George, President
First Nations Health Directors Association