In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken a small Canadian town, authorities have identified an 18-year-old as the suspect in a shooting that claimed eight lives and left many others wounded.
The suspect, Jesse Van Rootselaar, was discovered at the scene with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was pronounced dead. Investigators are still working to uncover the reasons behind this senseless act of violence.
The tragedy unfolded at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where six people lost their lives: a 39-year-old female educator, three 12-year-old girls, a 12-year-old boy, and a 13-year-old boy. At least 25 others were injured, with some airlifted to hospitals for urgent care. Earlier that day, two more victims—the suspect’s 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old step-brother—were found deceased at a nearby home.
Officials confirmed that Van Rootselaar, who had been born male, began transitioning to female about six years ago. The sequence of events began at the home before moving to the school, and authorities believe no other individuals were involved.
Over the years, police had responded to the family’s residence several times, often for concerns related to mental health. The suspect was familiar to local law enforcement and had once held a valid firearms license, which had expired. Van Rootselaar had left Tumbler Ridge Secondary School four years prior.
Around 1:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday, emergency calls reported an active shooter at the school. Responding officers arrived within two minutes, entered amid ongoing gunfire, and quickly located the suspect. Two weapons—a long gun and a modified handgun—were recovered, though their specific use in the attack is still under investigation.
Tumbler Ridge, a close-knit community of about 2,400 people in British Columbia, is grappling with the aftermath. The secondary school serves just 160 students in grades 7 through 12. In a poignant address, the town’s mayor urged residents to support one another: “Lend your ear when someone needs it. Offer a shoulder to cry on. Give a hug to those who are hurting.”
The prime minister described the ordeal as one of “unheard-of cruelty,” emphasizing the bravery of the students and staff while noting that some survivors continue to fight for their lives in hospital.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on healing and understanding how such a devastating event could occur in this peaceful corner of Canada.