Mark Carney has delivered a tearful address while speaking to reporters after one of Canada's deadliest shootings sent a quiet town in British Colombia reeling.
So far, police have said nine have been killed, along with the shooter, at a secondary school during the mass shooting in the rural community of Tumbler Ridge.
Meanwhile, more than 25 others were injured, with the suspect's body - who was described only as a "female in a dress with brown hair", discovered at the scene as well.
Addressing Parliament Hill in Ottawa today, the Canadian Prime Minister said it was a "difficult day" for Tumbler Ridge and the entire nation.
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"Parents and grandparents, sisters and brothers in Tumbler Ridge will wake up without someone they love," Mr Carney said with red-rimmed eyes.
"The nation mourns with you. Canada stands by you."
He thanked emergency services for their action, as well as world leaders who have offered their condolences, including Canada's Head of State King Charles III.
All flags hoisted by Government building will be flown at half mast for the following week, Mr Carney said.
Mark Carney broke down in tears after the deadly shooting at school in a small town in British Columbia
|REUTERS
The ex-Bank of England Governor declared: "We will get through this.
"But right now it is a time to come together, like Canadians do in these terrible situations. To support each other, to mourn together and to grow together."
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) descended on Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in the rural part of British Columbia, in the west on Tuesday afternoon local time.
The suspect is among the dead, reportedly from a self-inflicted injury. Six of the victims were found dead in the school, while another person died on the way to hospital.
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The town of Tumbler Ridge has a population of about 2,400 people
|REUTERS
The town of Tumbler Ridge has a population of about 2,400 people, around 600 miles north of Vancouver, close to the border with Alberta.
Mr Carney has suspended a planned trip to Germany following the horrific tragedy.
Among those offering their condolences include the King, who expressed his deep "shock and sadness at the senseless act of brutal violence" in Canada.
Charles said: "My wife and I were profoundly shocked and saddened to learn of the most dreadful attack at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia.
"We can only express our deepest possible sympathy to the families who are grieving the unimaginable loss of their loved ones and those still awaiting news from hospital. In such a closely connected town, every child's name will be known and every family will be a neighbour.
"We can only begin to imagine the appalling shadow that has now descended across Tumbler Ridge and our hearts go out to all those whose lives have been so shattered by this senseless act of brutal violence.
"I very much wish to thank the town's police and staff at the health centre for their courage as first responders, and all those across British Columbia who have helped in every way they have.
"In sending our most heartfelt condolences, my wife and I stand in solidarity with the people of Tumbler Ridge and all Canadians as they seek understanding, healing and strength."
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