District of Tumbler Ridge “grateful” for Governor General’s visit

TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — Canada’s Governor General will be returning to Tumbler Ridge this week, more than two months after the February mass shooting. 

Governor General Mary Simon will be in Tumbler Ridge from April 27th to 29th, 2026, according to a release by the District of Tumbler Ridge.

In the release, the district says the return visit reflects an “ongoing commitment to walk alongside the Tumbler Ridge community as it continues to navigate the impacts of the tragedy on February 10th.”

In the release, Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka said the district is “grateful to Her Excellency for returning to Tumbler Ridge.”

“Her presence reinforces that our community is not alone and that the care, compassion and resilience shown here continues to be seen and supported.”

According to the release, the Governor General will meet with students, educators, health care providers, first responders and others who have played an important role in supporting the community. 

The release also states most engagements involving the Governor General will be closed to the public “due to the nature of the visit and the importance of maintaining a respectful and supportive environment for those participating.”

The Governor General’s flag will be flown at Town Hall on April 27th to commemorate her visit, according to the release. During this time, the Canadian Flag will be temporarily lowered. 

On April 28th, the Governor General’s flag will be removed, and the Canadian flag will be lowered to half-mast to observe the National Day of Mourning. 

In the release, the district said it “recognizes that this visit may bring forward a range of emotions for community members.” It said support remains available and individuals are encouraged to access services in whatever way feels right for them.

More information on the Governor General’s visit can be found on the Governor General’s website.