Authorities have identified the individual responsible for the tragic mass shooting in the small town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. Eighteen-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar has been named as the suspected shooter, who sadly took his own life. The incident resulted in the deaths of nine individuals and numerous injuries.
After receiving reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, local RCMP swiftly responded and encountered gunfire upon arrival. Despite the dangerous situation, officers managed to locate the shooter inside the school, where he was found deceased. Two firearms, a long gun, and a modified handgun were recovered from the scene, adding complexity to the ongoing investigation.
BC RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald revealed that Van Rootselaar was a resident of the town, with the tragic event claiming the lives of an adult female educator, three female students, and two male students aged between 13 and 17. Additionally, two more individuals were found dead in a nearby residence.
Following the incident, over 100 students and staff were evacuated to a community center for safety while those injured were provided with medical assistance. Despite initial confusion regarding the number of fatalities, authorities clarified that nine individuals, including the shooter, lost their lives in the tragic event.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the origin of the firearms and the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The community of Tumbler Ridge is left grieving as they come to terms with this devastating loss.
