MILAN – General Manager’s Response to Tragedy
Doug Armstrong, the Canadian General Manager, began his press conference on Wednesday with a poignant message related to a tragic event in Canada.
He extended his sympathies to Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, where a mass shooting at a high school and a nearby home left nine dead and 25 injured on Tuesday afternoon.
“This touches us all,” he stated at the Santa Giulia Arena, just before the Canadian team’s first game against the Czech Republic in the 2026 Olympic tournament.
“We recognize that while this is a sport, real-life events take precedence over everything else. The best we can do is show our support and focus on our responsibilities here,” he added.
It’s not surprising, then, that the tragic shooting had a significant impact on Canada’s practice sessions that day.
As the team geared up for the men’s hockey tournament, the somber events resonated deeply with many players. It’s a familiar feeling for them.
John Cooper, the head coach of the national team and a Prince George native, reflected, “I grew up spending time there. You know, you create bonds, and it becomes part of you. Friends are there; work is there. It’s been a while since I’ve visited, but tragedies usually feel distant. This one really hits home. My heart goes out to all the families involved.”
According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the incident involved a female gunman, who killed nine individuals before taking her own life.
They reported that six victims were found within the Tumbler Ridge Middle School, while two others were discovered at a residence believed to be linked to the tragedy.
2026 Winter Olympics
Another victim succumbed to injuries en route to the hospital, as confirmed by law enforcement.
Team captain Sidney Crosby shared, “My thoughts are with all those affected. It’s shocking—something like this is just not something you expect.”
