TUMBLED RIDGE, British Columbia — A tragic shooting at a local school left eight people dead, including the suspect, an 18-year-old identified as Jesse Van Rootselaar. Law enforcement officials revealed that Van Rootselaar died from an apparent self-inflicted wound following the rampage in the small mountain town of Tumbler Ridge, known for its close-knit community and scenic beauty.
In what marks one of Canada’s most devastating mass killings in recent years, Van Rootselaar reportedly opened fire in a school that once served as her own educational institution. The victims included her 39-year-old mother and a younger stepbrother, along with six other individuals—five of whom were students aged 12 to 13 and a teacher. Authorities noted that over 25 others were injured, and some sustained severe injuries requiring immediate medical attention.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald provided insights during a press briefing, indicating that Van Rootselaar had a documented history of mental health challenges and had been brought in for assessments under the provincial Mental Health Act on multiple occasions. “We’ve encountered her family regarding concerns about her mental well-being on several instances,” McDonald stated.
The young woman, who began identifying as female six years ago, had dropped out of school four years prior to the incident. Details regarding the motive for the shooting remain sparse, with McDonald emphasizing it is “too early” to determine any specific reasons behind the attack. Preliminary investigations show no indication that any particular individuals were targeted.
Law enforcement arrived at the scene just two minutes after receiving a distress call about the shooting. Authorities were initially alerted after a family member, who was present at Van Rootselaar’s home during the earlier attacks, sought help from a neighbor. When police arrived, they faced gunfire and soon discovered Van Rootselaar, who had succumbed to a self-inflicted injury. Officers recovered a long gun and a modified handgun, but while Van Rootselaar once possessed a firearms license, it had lapsed, and there were no registered weapons in her name.
Community members have expressed deep sorrow on social media, sharing heartfelt tributes to the victims. One father, Abel Mwansa, mourned the loss of his 12-year-old son, while Shanon Dycke shared the heartbreaking news of her niece, Kylie May Smith, being among those killed. Additionally, Cia Edmonds reported that her daughter, Maya, was critically injured and fighting for her life in the hospital.
School shootings are uncommon in Canada, where gun regulations are stringent. This incident has shaken Tumbler Ridge, which boasts a population of roughly 2,700 residents. Mayor Darryl Krakow, visibly emotional, called on the town to unite during this painful period. He characterized Tumbler Ridge as a close community, often referred to as “one big family,” and urged residents to support one another in coping with the aftermath of the tragedy.