Tragedy Strikes Tumbler Ridge: Eight Lives Lost in School Shooting

A devastating mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in northeastern British Columbia on February 10, 2024, has resulted in the tragic deaths of eight individuals, leaving the community in mourning. The incident unfolded during school hours, with six victims found deceased at the school. Two additional victims were later discovered in a nearby residence, bringing the total fatalities to nine. The shooter, identified as Jesse Van Rootselaar, an 18-year-old, died from a self-inflicted injury during the attack.

The aftermath of the shooting has left two individuals hospitalized and 25 others injured, primarily from minor injuries. Emergency response teams, including eight ambulances and six air ambulances, were dispatched to the scene, with two victims flown to the hospital, one in critical condition.

In a statement released by the B.C. RCMP, Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald emphasized the focus on supporting the victims’ families and the broader community as they navigate this profound loss. “This is a time of deep sorrow,” McDonald stated. “We will continue to support the families, respect their wishes, and walk with the community as it begins the long journey toward healing.”

Identification of Victims and Community Response

On February 12, the identities of the victims were officially released. Among those killed at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School were:

– Abel Mwansa, 12 years old
– Ezekiel Schofield, 13 years old
– Kylie Smith, 12 years old
– Zoey Benoit, 12 years old
– Ticaria Lampert, 12 years old
– Shannda Aviugana-Durand, 39 years old

The two victims found at the nearby residence were Emmett Jacobs, 11 years old, and his mother, Jennifer Jacobs, 39 years old.

In response to the tragedy, a day of mourning has been declared for Thursday, February 15, with plans for community vigils underway. Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to attend a vigil in Tumbler Ridge, extending an invitation to leaders of all political parties to join him.

Local leaders, including Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka, have expressed their condolences and emphasized the importance of community support. Krakowka stated, “Our community is strong; we are family; we need to help each other.”

Details on the Shooter and Investigation

While the investigation continues, Premier David Eby has committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the shooter’s actions. Eby promised to explore mental health issues and police interactions related to Van Rootselaar, who had previously been assessed under the Mental Health Act.

The police confirmed that Van Rootselaar, who had transitioned six years prior, possessed a gun license that had expired in 2024 but did not have any registered firearms in her name. Investigators are examining the motive behind the shooting, with reports indicating a prior history of police attendance at the family residence related to mental health and firearms incidents.

As the community grapples with the aftermath, various fundraising efforts are being established, including verified GoFundMe campaigns to support the victims’ families. One campaign, organized by a neighbor, aims to assist Ticaria Lampert’s family with funeral expenses. The organizer described Ticaria as “a loving, courageous, humorous, one of a kind kiddo.”

The coming weeks will be crucial as Tumbler Ridge begins its healing process, united in grief but also in resilience.