Firearms found after ‘routine destruction’ not related to Tumbler Ridge mass shooting, RCMP say

Candles sit on the ground as people attend a vigil for the victims of a mass shooting, in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., Friday, Feb. 13, 2026. (Christinne Muschi / The Canadian Press)

More than a dozen firearms recently destroyed in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., were not related to the shootings that left nine people dead there earlier this year, police say.

In response to “rumours” circulating in the community, the Tumbler Ridge RCMP detachment issued a statement explaining that the weapons were seized during investigations that took place between 2016 and 2024, adding that destroying and disposing of seized firearms is part of the detachment’s “routine operations.”

“It has come to the attention of the Tumbler Ridge RCMP that local community members found the destroyed firearms, which has led to rumours suggesting they were connected to the recent tragedy in February,” the statement reads.

“To clarify, there is no connection whatsoever between the destroyed firearms and the February incident.”

Police did not explain how or where the weapons were found or explain their disposal process in detail.

The detachment said a total of 20 firearms had been “rendered inoperable” through an “approved destruction process,” and were no longer legally classified as firearms.

“All firearms related to the February tragedy are currently being held by the North District Major Crime Unit as part of their ongoing investigation,” said Sgt. Ian Rissanen, the detachment’s interim commander, in the release.

“None of the firearms destroyed as part of this routine process are connected to that event.”

On Feb. 10, 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar killed her mother and half brother at their home before making her way to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. There, she killed five students and a teacher’s aide, wounded two others, and killed herself.

“The Tumbler Ridge RCMP understands the concern these rumours may cause and encourages community members with questions or concerns to contact the detachment directly,” Wednesday’s statement concludes.

“Members of the public can speak with the interim detachment commander by calling 250-242-5252.”