Police Identify 18-Year-Old as Suspect in Tumbler Ridge Shooting
An 18-year-old has been identified as the suspect in a tragic shooting incident that claimed eight lives and injured many more in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. The shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, was discovered dead at the scene due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The motive behind this devastating attack remains unclear.
Overview of the Incident
– Fatalities and Injuries: Six individuals lost their lives at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, while at least 25 others sustained injuries. Additionally, two victims—Van Rootselaar’s 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old step-brother—were found deceased at a nearby residence.
– Community Response: The Tumbler Ridge community came together, mourning the loss with vigils and moments of silence. Hundreds gathered in the town’s main square and outside the British Columbia legislature in Victoria to pay their respects.
– Vigil Remarks: Attendees shared heartfelt sentiments, highlighting the need for safety in schools. Gigi Rejano, a vigil participant, emphasized, “Schools should be safe.” Similarly, Raj Chouhan, speaker of the legislature, expressed solidarity, urging the community to “pray together and send our love.”
Sequence of Events
The tragic events unfolded as follows:
– Initial Shooting: The shooting at the home occurred first, followed by the attack at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where students were present when the shooter arrived.
– Victims: The fatalities at the school included a 39-year-old female educator, three female students aged 12, and two male students, aged 12 and 13.
– Police Response: Authorities received reports of an active shooter at around 1:30 PM local time. Officers arrived within two minutes, encountered gunfire, and quickly located the shooter, who was already deceased. They recovered two firearms at the scene—a long gun and a modified handgun—though the exact involvement of each weapon in the shooting remains under investigation.
Background on the Suspect
– Mental Health Concerns: Jesse Van Rootselaar had been known to police, with previous encounters involving mental health issues. Dwayne McDonald, deputy commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), provided insights into the suspect’s background, stating that Van Rootselaar was born a biological male but had begun transitioning to female six years ago.
– Gun License: Although Van Rootselaar previously held a valid gun license, it had lapsed prior to the incident. They had not attended Tumbler Ridge Secondary School for the past four years.
Community Impact
– Tumbler Ridge’s Size: Tumbler Ridge has a population of about 2,400 residents, and its secondary school serves 160 students in Grades 7-12.
– Statements from Leaders: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney remarked on the unthinkable trauma experienced by students and educators during the shooting, highlighting that several victims are still in the hospital fighting for their lives. Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka described the community as “one big family,” encouraging residents to support one another in this time of grief.
Final Thoughts
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for discussions around mental health and gun control. As Tumbler Ridge begins to heal, the community is left to navigate the emotional aftermath of a tragedy that no one should ever have to experience.