Tumbler Ridge School Shooting: What We Know
The mountain town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, was left devastated on Tuesday after an 18-year-old woman killed eight people and wounded dozens more in one of Canada’s worst school shootings in recent years.
Police say the suspected shooter first killed her mother and stepbrother at a residence before heading to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Authorities had previously responded to multiple mental health-related calls involving the suspect, though a motive remains unknown.
Flags across Canada were lowered to half-staff on Wednesday. Prime Minister Mark Carney and federal leaders observed a moment of silence in Parliament. British Columbia has declared Thursday a day of mourning.
Victims
Police confirmed that a female teacher, three female students, two male students, and two relatives of the suspect were killed.
- The students killed were aged 12 and 13.
- The two relatives found at the residence were the suspect’s mother and 11-year-old stepbrother.
The family of 12-year-old Kylie Smith confirmed her death, describing her as a “beautiful soul.” Another 12-year-old student, Maya Edmonds, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head and neck.
Authorities later revised the death toll to eight, excluding the shooter, after confirming that one critically injured person had survived.
Suspected Shooter
Police identified the suspect as Jesse Van Rootselaar, an 18-year-old former student who left school about four years ago.
Key details from the RCMP:
- Officers had visited the suspect’s home multiple times over several years for mental health concerns.
- The most recent contact was last spring, related to self-harm.
- Firearms previously seized from the home had later been returned following a petition.
- Van Rootselaar was born male and began transitioning to female about six years ago.
Police said there is no evidence of bullying related to her transition. No note or communication indicating a motive has been found.
How the Shooting Unfolded
- The attack began with the killings at the suspect’s home.
- At 2:20 p.m. local time, police received reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.
- Officers arrived within minutes and found the suspect dead from an apparent self-inflicted injury.
- Victims were located in various areas of the school, including a stairwell and the library.
- Two Victims were taken to hospital with serious injuries, and around 25 others required medical treatment.
- A young relative at the home alerted a neighbour, who called police at 2:47 p.m.
Community Response
Hundreds gathered in Tumbler Ridge on Wednesday night for a vigil, laying flowers and lighting candles. Mayor Darryl Krakowka described the town of 2,400 residents as “one big family” and urged the community to support one another as they grieve.
Prime Minister Mark Carney praised the town’s resilience and said no community should have to endure such tragedy.