The small Canadian town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, has faced a tragic event as it grapples with one of the nation’s most severe school shootings in recent history. An 18-year-old woman is accused of taking the lives of at least eight individuals while injuring many others on Tuesday.
Authorities remain uncertain about the motive behind the alleged shooter’s actions, which included the tragic killings of her mother and step-brother prior to the incident at the school. It is known that the police had previously interacted with her concerning mental health issues.
In a display of national mourning, flags across Canada were flown at half-staff on Wednesday. Prime Minister Mark Carney, along with other political leaders, expressed their condolences in Parliament with solemn speeches and a moment of silence. British Columbia has declared Thursday a day of mourning.
Here is what is currently known about the shooting, the alleged shooter, the victims, and the ongoing investigation.
The suspect has been identified as Jesse Van Rootselaar, an 18-year-old woman from Tumbler Ridge who had withdrawn from school approximately four years ago.
Deputy Police Commissioner McDonald stated that officers had previously visited Van Rootselaar’s home multiple times regarding mental health concerns.
The latest police visit occurred last spring and was prompted by concerns about her mental health and potential self-harm.
McDonald mentioned that the suspect had been taken for assessment on multiple occasions, during which firearms were confiscated from the residence and later returned upon petition.
When inquired about whether Van Rootselaar identified as transgender, McDonald stated that she should be recognized as she identifies publicly and on social media.
McDonald confirmed that Van Rootselaar was biologically male at birth and began transitioning to female roughly six years ago, identifying as female both socially and publicly.
There have been no indications that Van Rootselaar was subjected to bullying related to her transition during her time at school, McDonald stated.
Authorities have not discovered any notes or communications suggesting a motive for the violent acts.
Canadian police believe the alleged shooter first killed her mother and step-brother at their home in Tumbler Ridge before moving to the school.
Police received reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at 2:20 p.m. local time (4:20 p.m. ET) on Tuesday, and officers arrived on the scene shortly thereafter.
At approximately 2:30 p.m., alarms sounded within the school, indicating a lockdown, which led students to secure classroom doors. A student reported that he and his classmates used tables to barricade themselves.
Meanwhile, a young female relative of the alleged shooter alerted a neighbor about the situation, prompting a call to the police at 2:47 p.m.
The suspected shooter was later found deceased in the school, with indications of a self-inflicted injury.
Upon entering the school, police discovered one victim dead in a stairwell and additional victims in the library, according to Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
Two individuals were transported to the hospital with serious injuries, while approximately 25 others required medical attention.
The deceased included a female teacher, three female students, two male students, and two relatives of the suspected shooter, police reported on Wednesday.
The three female students were all 12 years old, while the male students were aged 12 and 13, as stated by Sergeant Vanessa Munn.
The two deceased relatives were Van Rootselaar’s mother and step-brother, according to police.
The death toll from the shooting was revised to eight victims, excluding the shooter, as authorities clarified that an initially reported fatality had survived.
Among those critically injured is a 12-year-old girl named Maya Edmonds, who was shot in the head and neck. She is currently receiving medical care at Vancouver Children’s Hospital, as noted by her mother on a verified GoFundMe page.
“My 12-year-old daughter is fighting for her life while they try to repair the damage,” Maya’s mother, Cia Edmonds, stated in an update, sharing her hope for recovery.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the identities of those who were killed or injured in this tragic incident.
A public vigil drew hundreds to a square in Tumbler Ridge on Wednesday evening, where community members lit candles and laid flowers to honor the victims.
Mayor Darryl Krakowka expressed that the town feels like “one big family,” visibly emotional during a news conference following the vigil.
“Everyone in Tumbler Ridge will be grieving,” he said.
“Be there for one another—lend your ear or shoulder when someone needs it. A simple hug can make a difference,” he added.
Tumbler Ridge, a close-knit community of around 2,400 residents, rests against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in northeastern British Columbia. Founded in the 1980s as a coal mining town, its primary mines have since closed.
Acknowledging the town’s resilience, Prime Minister Mark Carney remarked that Tumbler Ridge exemplifies a community where no one is left behind.
This timeline in this story has been updated following clarification from Canadian police.
Key Takeaways
- An 18-year-old woman is accused of a tragic school shooting in Tumbler Ridge, Canada, resulting in eight deaths.
- Authorities are still investigating the shooter’s motive, with prior mental health concerns noted.
- A community vigil was held with hundreds coming together to honor the victims.
- The town’s Mayor emphasized the need for support and togetherness during this difficult time.
- Victims included students and relatives of the alleged shooter, highlighting the tragedy’s local impact.
FAQ
What happened in Tumbler Ridge?
An 18-year-old woman allegedly carried out a school shooting, resulting in eight deaths and many injuries.
What are the known details about the shooter?
The shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, had previously withdrawn from school and had a history of mental health issues.
How did the community respond?
The community organized a vigil to honor the victims, showcasing their solidarity and support for one another.
