‘A community refusing to let tragedy define who it is’: Tumbler Ridge victims remembered in B.C. legislature

A week after the horrific mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, portable classrooms are arriving in the grief-stricken community.

A week after the horrific mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, stories of heroism continue to emerge.

Speaking Tuesday in the legislature, elected officials paid tribute to the victims, including education assistant Shannda Aviugana-Durand.

“Her self-sacrifice and her actions on the day of this horrific event likely saved the lives of three children in the library,” said Premier David Eby.

Larry Neufeld, Peace River South MLA, said that while the community faces difficult times ahead, he has seen the tenacious spirit of the people of Tumbler Ridge.

“I saw strength. I saw love. I saw a community refusing to let tragedy define who it is. We will repair the fabric of this community, but survival scars will remain,” Neufeld said.

The premier also paid tribute to a 12-year-old girl who was shot.

“We’re holding Maya Gebala…and her family, in our heart. She’s in a hospital room, critical care. We pray for her healing, we pray for her family and friends and for her quick recovery,” Eby said.

The premier said Paige Hoekstra, 19, is recovering after being seriously injured.

“Her resilience and the care surrounding her speak to the deep love of family, friends and community,” Eby said.

Meanwhile, temporary classrooms are being set up on the grounds of Tumbler Ridge Elementary, so students don’t have to go back to the secondary school where five students were shot dead, along with Aviugana-Durand.

Infrastructure Minister Bowinn Ma said in a statement to CTV News that no student, staff member or family “should ever feel pressured to return to school before they are ready.”

But she said for those “who are looking to reconnect with classmates and teachers, these temporary spaces will provide a safe and supportive place to begin that transition.”

Her ministry said that work is also underway to establish a more permanent plan.

The Ministry of Education has deployed resources to Tumbler Ridge, which will remain as long as needed.

Last week, Jesse Van Rootselaar went on a killing spree at the school after first taking the life of her mother and 11-year-old half brother at their home.

Vigils continue to be held across the province, including one in Dawson Creek Monday night that was attended by hundreds of people.