Tumbler Ridge shooting survivor returns home after 262 days in hospital

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 30, 2026

Photo Courtesy: GOFUNDME

A 13-year-old girl who was critically wounded in the February mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, has finally been released from hospital after 262 days of treatment and recovery.

Maya Gebala’s father, David, announced her homecoming in a social media post on Thursday, October 29, describing the milestone as one his family had long hoped to reach.

He recalled the uncertainty surrounding his daughter’s condition when she was airlifted to BC Children’s Hospital, saying doctors initially warned that she might not survive the night.

Since then, Maya has undergone multiple surgeries and faced serious medical setbacks. Her father documented several milestones throughout her recovery, including when she first opened her eyes, breathed without a ventilator and eventually began responding to those around her.

“There was never a day I stopped believing we would get here,” David wrote, while acknowledging that his daughter still faces a long road ahead.

He also expressed gratitude to the medical teams, therapists and supporters who helped Maya and her family through the months of treatment.

Maya was among those injured in the February 10 attack at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in northeastern British Columbia. The shooting claimed the lives of six students and a teacher at the school, while two family members were killed at a separate residence. The suspected shooter also died.

Her release marks a significant milestone for the family and the community, which has continued to grapple with the aftermath of one of Canada’s deadliest school shootings.

Although her recovery is far from over, Maya’s return home brings a new chapter after more than eight months in hospital.