Suspect Confirmed in Northern B.C. Tragedy
Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia — The Royal Canadian Mounted Police have identified 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaer as the suspect in a deadly shooting that devastated this small northern community. Police confirmed the identity during a detailed press briefing on Wednesday. Investigators said the suspect acted alone in the attack. The violence unfolded on February 10 in the remote town of about 2,700 residents. Authorities described the incident as one of the most serious acts of school violence in recent Canadian history.
Sequence of Events
According to police, the suspect first killed her 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old stepbrother at their home. She then drove to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in the early afternoon. The shooting began at approximately 2:20 p.m. Students and staff quickly initiated lockdown procedures. Officers responded within minutes of the first 911 call. Police entered the school while shots were still being fired. Authorities later found the suspect dead inside the building from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Casualties and Community Impact
Officials confirmed eight victims died in the attack, not including the shooter. The victims included a teacher and several students between 12 and 13 years old. At least 25 others sustained injuries. Emergency crews transported victims to nearby hospitals for treatment. Some patients required air ambulance transfers due to the town’s remote location. Grief counselors and crisis teams have since arrived to support students, families, and staff. Community members have organized vigils to honor those who lost their lives.
Suspect’s Background and Firearms Questions
Police revealed the suspect had prior interactions with law enforcement. Officers had previously attended the home under the Mental Health Act. Investigators said the suspect once held a firearms licence, which expired in 2024. No firearms were registered in her name at the time of the shooting. Authorities confirmed that firearms previously seized from the residence were legally returned to another adult in the household. Police continue to examine how the weapons used in the attack were obtained.
National Response and Ongoing Investigation
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed condolences to the victims’ families and the Tumbler Ridge community. Officials lowered flags to half-mast in recognition of the tragedy. School shootings remain relatively rare in Canada, where gun laws are stricter than in many other countries. Investigators are now working to determine the motive behind the attack. RCMP officials said the investigation remains active and complex. They urged the public to avoid speculation while authorities gather evidence. The community now faces a long process of healing as Canada confronts difficult questions about youth violence and mental health.
