Canada Mourns After Deadly School Shooting in B.C.

TUMBLER RIDGE, British Columbia

Canada is mourning after a devastating school shooting in the remote community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, left nine people dead and more than two dozen injured in one of the country’s deadliest acts of mass violence in recent history.

The tragedy unfolded on February 10 at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, a small institution serving approximately 175 students from Grades 7 to 12. According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the suspect identified as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar allegedly began the violence at a private residence, where two family members were killed. Authorities say she then drove to the school and opened fire inside the building.

Police confirmed that six victims were found dead at the school, while another succumbed to injuries en route to hospital. In total, nine lives were lost. At least 25 others were injured, with several transported to larger medical centers for critical care. The suspect was later found deceased inside the school from what investigators described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Officials have stated that no other suspects are believed to be involved.

Among those killed were students as young as 12 and 13 years old, as well as a 39-year-old educator. The close-knit town of roughly 2,700 residents has been left shaken, with schools in the district closed for the remainder of the week as counseling services and crisis response teams are deployed.

Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the nation, expressing profound sorrow and announcing that flags at federal buildings would be flown at half-mast for seven days. He postponed scheduled engagements to focus on the national response, stating that the entire country stands in solidarity with the grieving community.

British Columbia Premier David Eby described the incident as “unimaginable” and pledged full provincial support for affected families. Messages of condolence have also poured in internationally, including from members of the British royal family.

Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the attack, including the suspect’s background and access to firearms. The tragedy has reignited national discussions around school safety, gun regulation, and mental health support systems.

As Tumbler Ridge begins the long process of healing, vigils are being planned and community members are rallying around the victims’ families united in grief and searching for answers in the wake of a heartbreaking loss.

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