In the quiet mining town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, a routine school day turned into an unimaginable nightmare on February 10, 2026. An 18-year-old entered Tumbler Ridge Secondary School armed and opened fire, claiming the lives of five students, an education assistant, and others in a separate attack at a home. Amid the chaos in the school library, where much of the horror unfolded, one 12-year-old girl stood out for her extraordinary courage.

Maya Gebala, a Grade 7 student described by family as outgoing, sporty, and full of life—especially passionate about ice hockey—did not run or hide when the danger arrived. Instead, she rushed to the library door in a desperate attempt to lock it and shield her classmates from the attacker. Her brave effort bought precious seconds, but it came at a devastating cost. Shots rang out as she tried to secure the door, forcing her to dive for cover under a table. Tragically, she was struck multiple times—bullets to the head (entering above her left eye) and neck, with fragments remaining in her brain and body.

Air-lifted urgently to BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, Maya arrived in extreme critical condition. Doctors initially held little hope, warning her family that she might not survive the first night. Her injuries, likened to those from a severe stroke, have caused permanent damage, including limited movement on her right side and challenges with basic functions. Yet, against all odds, this resilient young girl has shown remarkable signs of fight.

Recent updates from her parents, who have kept vigil by her bedside, bring a glimmer of bittersweet progress. After days on a ventilator, the pressure has been reduced because Maya is now taking breaths on her own—a small but powerful milestone eight days after the tragedy. Her family describes her as “strong, brave, and far more powerful than anyone expected,” calling her “Maya Bear” in heartfelt messages. Though she remains in intensive care and unconscious at times, these independent breaths represent a critical turning point, offering a final, fragile chance for recovery that doctors are carefully monitoring.

The road ahead is long and uncertain. Maya’s wounds are complex, with ongoing concerns about neurological impact and mobility. Her parents have shared the agony of watching their daughter battle, while also expressing compassion amid the community’s shared grief. They urge support for Tumbler Ridge as the town grapples with loss and healing, with students unable to return to the school building and alternative arrangements being made.

Maya’s story has touched hearts across Canada and beyond. A young girl who put others first now needs the world to rally around her. Her courage in those terrifying moments reminds us of the unbreakable spirit that can emerge even in the darkest times. As she continues this fight—one breath at a time—prayers and hopes pour in for the miracle that could bring her back stronger. For Maya and her family, every small victory is a testament to resilience in the face of unimaginable pain.