RCMP confirm identities of all 8 Tumbler Ridge victims. Here’s what we know

Tumbler Ridge, B.C., is in mourning Thrusday a day after 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar shot and killed eight people at a residence and nearby school before turning the gun on herself. Approximately 25 people were injured.

• What we’ve learned about the victims
• Here’s what we know about the shooter

Here’s everything that happened on Feb. 12, 2026:

RCMP releases list of victims

RCMP have confirmed the identities of the victims.

Victims from Tumbler Ridge Secondary School

• Abel Mwansa: 12 years old
• Ezekiel Schofield: 13 years old
• Kylie Smith: 12 years old
• Zoey Benoit: 12 years old
• Ticaria Lampert: 12 years old
• Shannda Aviugana-Durand: 39 years old

Victims from residence on Fellers Avenue

• Emmett Jacobs: 11 years old
• Jennifer Jacobs: 39 years old

Shooting victim ‘my forever baby’: mom

Sarah Lampert shared memories of her daughter Ticaria Thursday evening, remembering her as a “strong voice that was silenced” in this week’s horrific mass shooting in northern B.C.

Ticaria — or “Tiki,” as her family nicknamed her — was strong-willed, fearless and outspoken, Sarah Lampert said.

But Sarah says Ticaria’s favourite thing was making people laugh, with her “Santa’s sack of every bad dad joke you could think of.”

The grieving mother said her daughter didn’t have plans for her future yet, because she was still happy living in the moment as an innocent, carefree kid.

“She was in no hurry to grow up,” an emotional Lampert said. “She is my forever baby.”

Andrew Weichel, CTVNewsVancouver.ca journalist

You can read the full story here

‘I saw a bright future’: 12-year-old boy mourned by father

Abel Mwansa, 12, has been identified as one of the five students killed in the mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.

His father, Abel Mwansa Sr. shared his grief online—remembering his child as someone who went to school with a smile on his face while mourning the future his son will never have.

“I saw a bright future, a leader an engineer also a scientist in you, because you loved doing experiments with explanation,” Mwansa Sr. said.

“I invested so much in you to make you a better person, one that will change the world.”

The bereft father also expressed how helpless he feels after the killings.

“If I had power to give life I would have brought you back to life together with others that were killed alongside you. But son, my power is limited,” he wrote.

“Seeing your child murdered at this age is heartbreaking.”

CTV News has confirmed the victim’s identity with family.

Lisa Steacy, CTVNewsVancouver.ca Journalist

Shooter’s family led ‘almost nomadic life’: judge in 2015

The perpetrator of this week’s mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge led “an almost nomadic life” as a young child, according to a 2015 B.C. Supreme Court decision in a family law case.

The shooter, who police have identified as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, would have been eight or nine years old at the time Justice Anthony Saunders handed down his decision, ordering Jennifer Jacobs, also known as Jennifer Strang, to return her children to B.C.

Jacobs was Van Rootselaar’s mother and one of two people found dead at their family home after Tuesday’s shooting. The other was her 11-year-old son, Emmett Jacobs.

Police believe Van Rootselaar killed her family members before making her way to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where she killed five students and a teacher before shooting herself.

The court decision indicates that Jacobs and her children made multiple moves between Newfoundland, Grande Cache, Alta., and Powell River, B.C., in the five years preceding the hearing of the case.

The decision was prompted by Jacobs’ August 2015 move with her children, from Powell River to Newfoundland, which she did without proper notice to — and against the wishes of — the children’s father, Justin Van Rootselaar.

Ian Holliday, CTVNewsVancouver.ca journalist

You can read the full story here

Misinformation about trans people floods social media

As news broke and details emerged of Tuesday’s mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., Dee McWatters says her heart sank. She was thinking about the victims, their families, as well as the transgender community.

“It was like, ‘oh no, people are going to use this to weaponize hate … and use it as an excuse against the transgender community,’” said McWatters, who herself is a transgender woman that lives in southern B.C.

Like many members of the trans community, McWatters worries these comments will lead to even further stigmatization and marginalization.

“This is a mental-health issue. This has nothing to do with gender,” she said.

Heather Wright, CTV National News correspondent

You can read the full story here

‘Unimaginable pain’ of shootings focus of B.C. throne speech

The spring session of the British Columbia legislature opened Thursday, not with a preview of the government’s budget or legislative agenda, but with Lt.-Gov. Wendy Cocchia expressing condolences for those “suffering unimaginable pain.”

The B.C. NDP government abstained from delivering its usual throne speech in light of Tuesday’s shootings in Tumbler Ridge, which left nine people dead, including the shooter, and more than two dozen others injured.

Cocchia’s comparatively brief speech instead focused solely on the grief that has gripped the province in the wake of the tragedy.

She thanked the first responders, health-care workers and school staff who responded to the mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.

Following her address, MLAs from all parties stood behind the premier outside the legislature in a show of solidarity for the people of Tumbler Ridge.

“It’s not that often that the legislature is fully united,” Premier David Eby said.

Todd Coyne, CTVNewsVancouver.ca Journalist

Read the full story

‘Thank you, Canada’: Tumbler Ridge resident

Yvonne Poulin, a massage therapist based out of Tumbler Ridge, has a message for all the Canadians who have been sending their support to the tiny, grief-stricken town in northeastern B.C.

“I love this place. I love this town. And now I love Canada even more, because of what you have given to us,” she said.

Poulin acknowledged the large media presence in the small community of approximately 2,400 after the Tuesday shootings has been jarring, and for some, a sore point. But she also describes the presence of journalists in Tumbler Ridge as “the window to Canadians.”

To the millions of people who have been following the devastating story unfold in Tumbler Ridge, Poulin said, with tears in her eyes: “Thank you Canada, thank you the world. I know we can all relate to this.”

Andrew Johnson, CTV National News correspondent

‘That’s the hardest part. The little kids are gone’: teacher

Survivors of the school shooting reflect on what they heard and saw as a shooter opened fire at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School on Tuesday.

Jarbas Noronha was teaching a mechanics class when one of his students ran in saying they heard gunshots.

“We knew there was a real situation. And my goal at that time was, ‘I have these 15 kids, get out of here.’”

In another part of the school, 13-year-old Dennis Meehan said he heard the sounds of gunfire too.

“I’m just still processing it,” said Meehan.

“I just feel lost. I haven’t lost many people in my life, and it just made me realize that you should care for people when they are still here.”

Meehan said they all hid behind their teacher’s desk and barricaded the door.

That protectiveness also kicked in for Noronha. The impact of what happened is hitting him hard, especially since he taught the class the victims were in just an hour before the shooting.

“That’s the hardest part. The little kids are gone,” he said, tearing up.

Kathy Le, CTV National News correspondent

Teen shooting victim ‘officially out of danger’ after surgery: family

A 19-year-old woman who was airlifted to hospital in serious condition following the shooting is “officially out of danger and in recovery,” according to her family.

Paige Hoekstra was shot once in the chest at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School Tuesday and airlifted to hospital in Vancouver.

Her sister said on social media Thursday that Paige has undergone successful surgery to assess and repair her wounds.

“Her whole family is here to support her through her recovery to get back to the Paige we all know and love,” her sister wrote.

“We are deeply comforted by the outstanding support displayed by our friends, family, and community and we would like to thank everybody for all of the support, prayers and well wishes.”

A GoFundMe campaign posted by her brother had raised more than $25,000 by Thursday morning.

“We would also like to extend our own support and prayers to the families of the all the other victims, we are so fortune that Paige will be OK and we are here with you in your grief with the rest of the community,” her sister added.

“A brief message from Paige: ‘I want to tell everyone that I am OK and I am recovering.’”

Todd Coyne, CTVNewsVancouver.ca journalist

Psychologist calls for mental health support in Tumbler Ridge

Psychiatry and behavioural neurosciences professor Margaret McKinnon is calling for long-term mental health supports to be put in place in the remote northeastern town in B.C.

“While there’s the initial event, the mental health and wellbeing impact will continue well into the long-term,” said McKinnon.

“We want to make sure that all the support we offer is long-term and sustained. We don’t simply want mental health providers coming into the community and then leaving because that can also lead to a sense of abandonment for those who’ve been relying upon the care.”

McKinnon is calling on provincial and federal governments to provide long-term supports for everyone impacted by the tragedy.

Adrian Ghobrial, CTV National News correspondent

Carney, party leaders to attend vigil

A note from the Prime Minister’s Office says Prime Minister Mark Carney will travel to Tumbler Ridge tomorrow to attend a vigil.

“The Prime Minister has invited leaders of all parties to accompany him to British Columbia, should they wish to do so,” reads the release from the Prime Minister’s Office. CTV News has confirmed Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre will also attend.

The prime minister was scheduled to visit Germany for the Munich Security Conference this week but cancelled the trip in light of the shooting.

Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre, Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet, NDP interim leader Don Davies and Green Party Leader Elizabeth May will also be in attendance.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

‘There was no protection for them’

There are fresh tears today near Tumbler Ridge Secondary School where there is a steady stream of mourners determined to pay their respects at a growing memorial, including Premier David Eby, who arrived in town Wednesday night.

And, Rick Patterson, who’s lived here since 1983, raised his children here, and is now one of the many trying to navigate their grief. “I think it’s just day by day, moment by moment. It’s not in a textbook,” he said.

For Patterson, one of the hardest parts is feeling like the community somehow failed its most vulnerable.

“There was no protection for them,” he said. They thought they were in a safe space. I thought they were in a safe space, their parents thought they were in a safe space.”

Andrew Johnson, CTV National News correspondent

Support, connection key after community trauma

Executive director of the Crisis Centre for Northern B.C., Riley Skinner, said the aftermath of the tragedy will leave many students experiencing shock, numbness and difficulty processing what happened.

“Human beings are not meant to hold this, at least not alone,” Skinner said in an interview with CTV National News Thursday.

He said early support will focus on helping young people connect with others and understand their reactions are normal after trauma.

Skinner also highlighted the challenges in rural communities where access to services can be limited, however strong local ties often help people come together.

“The best thing we can do is connect with another person and try to do our best not to hold it alone,” he said.

Dorcas Marfo, CTVNews.ca journalist

The following resources are available to support people in crisis:

• Suicide Crisis Helpline: call or text 988 (24/7)
• Crisis Line Association of B.C.: 310-6789
• B.C. Bereavement Helpline: 604-738-9950

Gun laws and risk assessment

President of the coalition for gun control, Wendy Cukier, said the shooting underscores long-standing concerns about how risk is assessed when firearms are present in homes dealing with mental health crises.

“There is no right to own guns in this country, but there is a mechanism where the gun owner can apply to get those guns returned. It’s not clear to me what happened in this particular case,” Cukier said in an interview with CTV News Thursday. On Wednesday, the RCMP said officers had previously seized firearms from Van Rootselaar’s home, but returned them following a petition from the owner.

Cukier noted that gun violence is higher in rural areas on a per capita basis.

“It’s hard to tell in this instance whether it’s a gap in the law, whether it’s a gap in the implementation of the law, or whether it’s just one of those cases where no law could have made a difference.

“We need the resources to make sure that the police prioritize prevention, not just enforcement,” she said.

Dorcas Marfo, CTVNews.ca journalist

Ex-RCMP deputy commissioner on the investigation

RCMP investigators are now focused on uncovering the motive behind the deadly shooting that occurred in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., according to former RCMP deputy commissioner Peter German.

“This is not a who done it. We know who did it. It’s a question of why,” German said in an interview with CTV National News Thursday.

German said officers are expected to track the origin of the firearms involved and determine whether anyone else may have played a role in supplying them.

German added that if no additional charges are laid, the investigation will eventually transition to a coroner’s process to establish how the deaths occurred and the broader circumstances.

Dorcas Marfo, CTVNews.ca journalist

Local charity establishes ‘community resilience fund’

The Northeast B.C. Community Foundation has created the Tumbler Ridge Community Resilience Fund to provide long-term support for local residents as they begin the long process of healing after this week’s mass shooting.

“The fund has been created to provide sustained, community-guided support in the months and years ahead,” the foundation said in a news release Wednesday afternoon.

“Long-term healing requires ongoing resources, co-ordination, and care. Initiatives and programs will be guided by local leadership and meet the evolving community needs.”

The foundation acknowledged that other fundraisers have been launched in the wake of the tragedy and said the goal will be to “complement” those efforts, pledging that all donations to the fund will “directly support community-led efforts in Tumbler Ridge.”

“This Fund allows us to respond as needs change,” said Jennifer Moore, the NEBCCF’s executive director, in the release.

“Community foundations serve as trusted pillars in their community, mobilizing to be responsive in support of healing in the community. Our community foundation network across the nation is walking this path with us.”

Ian Holliday, CTVNewsVancouver.ca journalist

‘A dark week’

Speaking from the House floor on Thursday, Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon sent “heartfelt, best wishes” to the community of Tumbler Ridge for what he called “a dark week in the history of our country.”

He received standing ovation from both sides of the aisle.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

12-year-old victim was ‘one of a kind’

Ticaria Lampert, 12, has been identified as one of the victims killed in a shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.

“Ticaria was such a loving, courageous, humorous, one of a kind kiddo and her life was cut short,” an online fundraiser for the family says, adding that she was one of seven children being raised by a single mom.

CTV News has confirmed the victim’s identity with her family.

Lisa Steacy, CTVNewsVancouver.ca Journalist

Carney to visit Tumbler Ridge

Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit Tumbler Ridge, B.C., in the near future, says a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.

The statement says details, including the timing of the visit, are being worked out with community officials “based on their immediate needs.”

The Canadian Press

What’s next in the investigation?

As the investigation into the incident continues, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in B.C. have released more details about the shooter and the victims involved in one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history.

Police said Wednesday that Rootselaar was known to police and had a history of mental health concerns. However, the motive behind the shooting has yet to be determined.

“We know everything but the why,” former Toronto homicide detective Mark Mendelson told CTV’s Your Morning on Thursday.

“What the police are doing is, of course, they’re interviewing everybody at the school, because there are witnesses who actually saw what happened,” said Mendelson.

To determine if the six victims shot at the school were targeted, Mendelson said the RCMP will be looking at producing multiple search warrants and production orders “related to both the shooter and the family.”

“Were they on any blogs, any social media sites, were they being goaded into doing this action? That’s not unheard of, there’s people all over the world that encourage people to go out and do these things,” he said.

Jordan Fleguel, CTVNews.ca journalist. Read the full story here.

‘I didn’t know it would be the last time’

Parents grieving the loss of their daughter want Canadians to focus on the victims, not the person who shot them.

Community is ‘numb’ today

Residents of Tumbler Ridge have yet to fully process the mass shooting but continue to lean on each other, the community’s MLA says.

“The only reasonable description I can give you is numb,” Larry Neufeld, B.C. MLA for Peace River South, told CTV’s Your Morning on Thursday when asked how the grieving community was feeling.

“People are not processing it yet; I’m not properly processing it. I wasn’t here when it happened, but I am a member of the community and (we’re all) numb, I don’t have a better word for you.”

Neufeld, whose constituency office is located in nearby Dawson Creek, B.C., said one of his main priorities in the shooting’s aftermath was to ensure that everyone in the community had access to the necessary supports.

Jordan Fleguel, CTVNews.ca journalist. Read the full story here.

Victims: Jennifer and Emmet Strang

The shooter’s mother was identified as one of the victims police said was found at a home, which they described as a “secondary scene.” The RCMP did not name the suspect’s mother, but CTV News has confirmed her name was Jennifer Strang.

The suspect’s sibling — an 11-year-old boy — was also found in the home, according to authorities. His name was Emmett, CTV News learned.

Lisa Steacy, CTVNewsVancouver.ca Journalist

Experts warn against vilifying trans people

Advocates and experts are warning about the danger of vilifying an entire demographic based on the actions of one transgender person in the wake of the school shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.

Their comments come after an independent provincial legislator in British Columbia claimed, without evidence, that the shooting rampage that left nine people dead was related to the perpetrator’s gender identity.

The post added to a chorus of online posts claiming mass shooters are disproportionately transgender. In fact, the Gun Violence Archive has said less than 0.1 per cent of U.S. mass shootings between 2013 and 2025 were perpetrated by trans people, and Statistics Canada says roughly 0.3 per cent of the population is trans.

The Canadian Press. Read the full story here.

One of Canada’s deadliest shootings

Mass shootings are rare in Canada, but the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge Tuesday will go down as one of the deadliest in the country’s history.

The shooter killed eight people, making it one of the worst cases of gun violence recorded in B.C., but still a deeply uncommon event in this country.

“This is not the kind of thing that happens up here,” University of the Fraser Valley criminologist Wade Deisman told CTV News on Wednesday, describing the mindset many Canadians have when it comes to mass shootings.

“So, it takes us aback and it’s completely shocking and devastating when it does occur as it has now.”

Martin MacMahon, CTV News Vancouver journalist. Read the full story here.

Talking to children about the shooting

“We’re not used to hearing about like a high school shooting in Canada,” says Rebecca Calais Riddell, a clinical psychologist and professor at York University in Toronto. “And so it does … threaten our security and our safety.”

Riddell says when explaining the shooting to kids it’s important to try and stay calm.

“One of the most important things with children is to make them feel safe and secure when we’re having these conversations,” she says. “And if their caregiver can feel like they’re kind of calm in these unusual sorts of circumstances … that goes a long way.”

With young people, Riddell says parents should answer honestly without too many details and always try to return to a place of safety.

Heather Wright, CTV National News correspondent

Read the full story here

Here’s everything that happened on Feb. 11, 2026

EDITOR’S NOTE -- CTV News initially reported that the shooter was identified as Jesse Strang. The RCMP later confirmed that the 18-year-old goes by the name Jesse Van Rootselaar and was “born as a biological male” and “identified as female, both socially and publicly.”

Eby spoke with RCMP about prior interactions with suspect

B.C. Premier David Eby fought back tears Wednesday as he described the profound sadness and resiliency on display in the northern British Columbia community of Tumbler Ridge following one of the country’s deadliest mass shootings.

“It’s horrifying and inspirational at the same time,” Eby said less than three hours after arriving in the small mining town of 2,400 residents.

The premier delivered his remarks outside the Tumbler Ridge town hall after attending a small vigil for the victims of the shootings, which left nine people dead, including the suspect, and more than two dozen others injured.

“No one is focusing on themselves here,” the premier added. “Everybody’s worried about somebody else.”

Eby said he has been briefed by the commissioner of the RCMP about their interactions with the suspect, and his government has been in touch with the Northern Health authority “to understand what interactions may have taken place” with her prior to the shootings.

“We all want to do all we can to understand what happened and to make sure that we’re taking any steps to prevent tragedies like this from happening again,” Eby said.

Todd Coyne, CTVNewsVancouver.ca Journalist

Read the full story here

Victim’s father speaks out

Twelve-year-old Kylie Smith, who was the “light of her family,” is being identified by her grieving family as one of the students killed in a shooting at a Tumbler Ridge, B.C. high school Wednesday.

Her family spoke to CTV News Wednesday, from the small community that has been shattered by the shocking mass shooting that left nine people dead, including the suspect.

“She was just a beautiful soul. She loves art and anime. She wanted to go to school in Toronto, and we just loved her so much. She was thriving in high school,” her father, Lance Younge said. “She never hurt a soul.”

CTV News Vancouver

Read the full story here

‘Our hearts are shattered’: MLA for Tumbler Ridge

Peace River South MLA Larry Neufeld, whose district represents Tumbler Ridge, took to social media on Wednesday to offer help and reassurance to his community Wednesday evening.

“Today, our hearts are shattered,” he wrote in a Facebook post.

“What happened at our school is something no community should ever have to endure. Our children, our educators, our families, they are the heart of Timber Ridge,” he added. “And right now, that heart is hurting.”

Neufeld reminded residents that “it’s OK to feel overwhelmed” and not have the right words in times of tragedy.

“These are heavy burdens to carry alone,” he wrote. “Please, do not carry them alone.”

Free counselling services are available at the Tumbler Ridge Community Centre until 10 p.m. local time and at the Tumbler Ridge Health Unit until 11 p.m., and both places will be open from 8 a.m. until those same closing times on Thursday, the MLA said.

“I strongly encourage anyone who needs support — students, parents, staff, first responders, or community members to go,” Neufeld said. “Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of courage and care for yourself and your loved ones.”

Ian Holliday, CTVNewsVancouver.ca

Lifeline phone call connects mother and son during shooting

A mother and son spoke to CTV News about their experience during the Tuesday Tumbler Ridge shooting.

Darian Quist, a student at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, and his mother, Shelley, an X-ray technician at a local clinic, spoke to CTV News Channel on Wednesday.

“I feel a lot of different emotions, anger, guilt, sadness, they’re all mixed,” Darian said.

Shelley said a colleague told her that something was happening at the high school, but she didn’t have her phone.

“My phone was in my office, I ran to my office,” Shelley said, “I saw that Darian had texted me to let me know.” She called him and stayed on the line for the next two and a half hours, Shelley said.

“There were a lot of tense moments on the phone of not knowing, because he had to be quiet.” Shelley heard the police “break in” at around 5:30 p.m. PT.

Darian and other students were gathered at a local community centre, where Shelley was able to reunite with her son.

Joe Van Wonderen, CTVNews.ca Journalist

Psychologist warns of lasting effects for community

The Tumbler Ridge community may continue to suffer long after Tuesday’s shooting, one psychologist warns.

Marci Gray, CEO and lead psychotherapist of Gray Matter Health in Brampton, Ont., told CTV News Channel on Wednesday of the potential long-lasting effects for the northern B.C. community.

“This was a horrific tragedy, and of course, it’s going to bring a lot of grief, and a lot of tears, and a lot of sadness, and that’s to be expected,” she said.

Gray says the Tumbler Ridge community can support each other by coming together and honouring the victims and survivors.

“It is expected that after an event like this … there is going to be a traumatic effect from all of this.” She said that community members might find themselves experiencing flashbacks, numbness, nightmares and other effects. If the symptoms continue for a couple of months, Gray said that its important to reach out for mental health support.

She added that it was going to be “so important” for the wider Canadian community to support Tumbler Ridge with vigils and recognition.

” I’m sure that the community is now going to be surrounded with mental health supports at this time, and that’s really what is needed as well.”

Joe Van Wonderen, CTVNews.ca Journalist

Most victims under 15

RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald says most of Van Rootselaar’s victims were born in 2013 and 2012.

Due to their age, victims will only be identified with the consent of their families.

“We need to approach this with a trauma-informed practice,” said McDonald.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

Police seized guns from shooter’s home before

RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald says police had visited the shooter’s residence at various points over recent years. Officers had responded to mental-health related calls, and firearms had been seized.

“At a later point in time, the lawful owner of those firearms petitioned for those firearms to be returned, and they were.”

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

Family member alerted neighbour to killings: police

A family member to the shooter told the neighbours about the initial killings, prompting a call to police.

“We were called because a neighbour – there was a young female at that home that went to the neighbour’s – and that’s how we learned there were two deceased at that residence,” RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald said.

“The incident at the home occurred first, and from there our suspect attended the school and commenced their criminal activity there, and that’s how we learned there were two deceased at that residence,” McDonald added.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

Unclear if shooter had a target

Police say it’s not clear whether the shooter had a target when she went to the school.

“We don’t have information at this point to suggest that anyone was specifically targeted,” says RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald. He says there remains more evidence to gather.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

Shooter was not attending school

It’s too early to speculate on Van Rootselaar’s motive, RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald says. The shooter had dropped out of school.

One victim was located deceased in the hallway of the school, while others were in the library, McDonald added.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

Shooter had an expired gun licence

RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald says they’re not ready to release details on the long gun and modified handgun recovered at the scene of the shooting, adding the investigation will reveal whether the guns were purchased legally and by whom.

McDonald adds Van Rootselaar once possessed a firearm licence, which had expired, and that she did not have any guns registered to her.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

‘Active gunfire’ continued as RCMP arrived at school

Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, commanding officer of the B.C. RCMP, said local Mounties arrived at the scene within two minutes to encounter “active gunfire” on the property.

“As officers approached the school, rounds were fired in their direction,” McDonald said at a news conference Wednesday.

“Officers entered the school to locate the threat. Within minutes, an individual confirmed to be the shooter was located deceased with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.”

Community residents were told to stay inside and lock their doors for hours as authorities worked to confirm the threat had ended.

Andrew Weichel, CTVNewsVancouver.ca journalist. Read the full story here.

Woman reported dead remains in care

Nine people in total are deceased, RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald tells the media, correcting information that was shared widely yesterday.

One of the victims, a female with significant injuries, had been reported dead while she was being transported to receive medical care.

“She is alive,” McDonald said, adding she is one of two female victims who remain in serious condition.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

Shooter acted alone

“We do believe the suspect acted alone,” said RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, adding there are no other active suspects.

The RCMP is not publicly confirming the relationship between the shooter and the victims at this time, McDonald said.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist

Shooter’s mother, sibling among victims

Jennifer Strang, the shooter’s mother, and sibling, Emmett, are among the victims, CTV News has confirmed.

Lynn Chaya, CTVNews.ca journalist

Day of mourning planned in B.C.

The B.C. government is cancelling the Throne Speech that was planned for Thursday at the legislature and will instead declare a province-wide day of mourning after Tuesday’s tragic mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge.

Instead of the speech opening the spring session of the legislature, members will gather in Victoria at noon for a moment of silence in honour of the victims. The house will then adjourn.

At 2 p.m., B.C. Lt. Gov. Wendy Cocchia will deliver a speech in the house dedicated to the people of Tumbler Ridge, “followed by brief legally required procedures,” according to a joint statement issued Wednesday by the house leaders of the province’s three main political parties.

Ian Holliday, CTVNewsVancouver.ca journalist. Read the full story here.

Shooter identified

The Tumbler Ridge shooter has been identified as Jesse Strang, CTV News has confirmed.

Lynn Chaya, CTVNews.ca journalist

Massacre survivor reacts

Nathalie Provost, a survivor of the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre, and now a Liberal MP says she’s “devastated” by what happened yesterday.

Asked by CTV News, as a survivor of a mass shooting, what she wants survivors in British Columbia to know right now, Provost said: “One day, one day they will be okay.”

“It might be long, it might be tough, but they will be okay,” she said. As for whether she thinks there will be lessons to learned from this, and whether not enough has been learned since 1989, Provost said: “we will always learn something.”

“Just for example, in 1989, we were not talking about mental health, and we are now. And so, I think we learned a lot. … Each event that happens to our society, we are capable to learn from it. We can learn from it, and I will learn from it.”

Rachel Aiello, CTV National News correspondent

Patient at BC Children’s Hospital

BC Children’s Hospital executive vice-president Susan Wannamaker confirmed to CTV News that one patient in critical condition was transported from Tumbler Ridge yesterday following the shooting.

“The protection of patient privacy is paramount to us, and we do not routinely share information about our patients,” Wannamaker said in a statement. “However, there are exceptional times when we need to acknowledge those who are in our care.”

No additional updates will be provided, she said.

The hospital will also be providing youth mental health supports for the community, the statement adds.

Lynn Chaya, CTVNews.ca journalist

Carney addresses Parliament

Prime Minister Mark Carney said the tragic events in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., left Canada “in shock” and “in mourning.”

Carney addressed Parliament Wednesday after the deadly shooting, which left nine people dead and more than 25 injured.

“Tumbler Ridge represents the very best of Canada — resilient, compassionate, and strong,” Carney said, after describing the town and its history.

The House of Commons unanimously agreed to observe a moment of silence for the victims before party leaders made remarks and the rest of the day’s agenda was cancelled.

Carney said his heart is with those in the community, and extended his “profound gratitude” to first responders, and to the teachers and school staff “who acted with extraordinary courage to protect the children in their care.”

“In the darkest of moments, they showed the best of Canada,” he said.

The prime minister said he’s spoken with B.C. Premier David Eby, and that the public safety minister is co-ordinating the federal response.

In the House, Parliamentary pages and MPs on both sides of the aisle passed around boxes of tissues as the prime minister and other party leaders addressed the room.

“We have been here before: École Polytechnique in Montreal, the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City, La Loche, Saskatchewan, Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Portapique, Nova Scotia,” Carney said. “Each time, it breaks us open.

“Each time, Canadians show who we are, Mr. Speaker. In the days ahead, there will be important questions to ask, difficult conversations to have. We owe that to the victims and their families.”

Carney continued, “But now, it’s time for grieving and remembrance. Now is for the people of Tumbler Ridge and the Peace River region, for a community that is enduring the unimaginable.”

With files from CTV National News correspondent Rachel Aiello

Spencer Van Dyk, Ottawa News Bureau producer

MPs emotional in the House as party leaders address Parliament

Following Carney’s remarks, the other party leaders also addressed the House.

“That community is the best of Canada: a community of miners and loggers, hard-working people,” said Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.

Poilievre called the people of Tumbler Ridge the “backbone” of Canada.

“There are no words that can comfort, or verses that can console,” Poilievre also said. “All we have is the words of all members of this House that we are with you, and that in the memories you carry of your loved ones, they will live on in this world even after they have passed.”

Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet said in French that everyone’s thoughts are with the people of Tumbler Ridge. Then, speaking directly to the community, Blanchet spoke in English, an exceptionally rare occurrence for him in the House.

“I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the families of the nine children whose lives were taken, to the 25 families waiting and hoping for good news about their wounded children, and to the entire community of Tumbler Ridge,” he said.

Interim NDP Leader Don Davies and Green Party Leader Elizabeth May also spoke, extending their support and condolences to the families in mourning.

“Today is a day when we cherish the victims and care for their families,” Davies said. “Today is a day when we collectively grieve comfort, and hold each other just a little more tightly, and today is a day when a nation comes together in solidarity and love.”

May tearfully acknowledged her fellow party leaders for their remarks, and said hearts are broken for the affected families.

“If there’s ever any opportunity that we can as individual members of Parliament do anything to alleviate the pain and the suffering and the grief of the people of Tumbler Ridge, we’re with you today and always,” she said.

As soon as the proceedings ended, a congregation of MPs from all parties gathered in the middle aisle, hugging each other and shaking hands, Carney among them. There was also a line of MPs of all stripes waiting to offer comfort to Poilievre.

The last MP who spoke with Poilievre was Bruce Fanjoy, the Liberal MP who out-seated him last year.

Spencer Van Dyk, Ottawa News Bureau producer

With files from CTV News national correspondent Rachel Aiello

‘Devastating for the community’: MP who represents Tumbler Ridge

The MP who represents Tumbler Ridge said the events from Tuesday have been “devastating for the community.”

“It’s this beautiful little community that, I worked there as a kid, it was a coal town, so it was really built out of the wilderness into this almost Disneyland-looking community,” said Bob Zimmer, the MP for Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies, in an interview for CTV Power Play with Vassy Kapelos on Wednesday.

“It’s lasted through downturns in the economy, but it’s really resilient, and many just good folks out there, hard-working people that made it home,” he also said.

Zimmer said both he and the community welcome the thoughts and prayers from people across Canada, while several injured remain in hospital, and families continue to deal with this “in real time.”

“Some kids aren’t coming home, some kids are going to come home injured, and regardless of who it is in the community, they’re dealing with this trauma that they didn’t ever expect to have,” he said.

Spencer Van Dyk, Ottawa News Bureau producer

What happened?

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police say they first received a report of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time Tuesday.

“As part of the initial response to the active shooting, police entered the school to locate the threat,” the B.C. RCMP wrote in a statement Tuesday evening. “During the search, officers located multiple victims. An individual believed to be the shooter was also found deceased with what appears to be a self‑inflicted injury.”

Six other people were found dead inside the school, and one additional victim died while being taken to hospital. Two others were airlifted from the school with serious injuries, police said.

Two more victims were found dead inside a home police believe is connected to the incident. Police said officers were searching additional homes and properties to determine if anyone else may have been hurt.

Approximately 25 additional people were treated at a local clinic for non-life-threatening injuries, according to police.

“All remaining students and staff were safely evacuated. Police are working closely with the school district to support a co-ordinated reunification process for families,” the RCMP said.

Kaija Jussinoja, CTVNewsVancouver.ca journalist. Read the full story here

What comes next?

CTV News public safety analyst and former OPP commissioner Chris Lewis called the incident “absolutely heartbreaking” in an interview with CTV News Channel on Wednesday.

“People will know the individual, will know the family or the other people that were killed,” Lewis said, in reference to the small size of the community. “They may well appreciate that there has been problems in that family, maybe threats in the past, and of course, the police will know the individuals involved too, and know what has occurred in the past and what they might be linked to.”

Lewis said a full investigation into both crime scenes will help answer the relevant questions: where did the gun come from, who was the individual, the how, the why, who might have known, did anybody help, and were there indicators that somebody missed along the way?

“Lots of things to unfold here yet, lots of balls in the air, but they’ll pull it all together and we’ll have a clear picture at some point,” he said.

Lewis added physical resources from the RCMP and the province, such as additional personnel and mental health support, are likely already on the way.

Spencer Van Dyk, Ottawa News Bureau producer

Emotional remarks

Flags at federal buildings will fly at half-mast for the next seven days, a visibly emotional Prime Minister Mark Carney told reporters on Parliament Hill.

“The world is with you,” he said to Tumbler Ridge community members.

He also said several world leaders have reached out to him to offer condolences, including those of Britain, France, India, Finland, Norway, Australia, and “his majesty himself.” In a later note, the Prime Minister’s Office wrote Carney is cancelling his upcoming trip to Germany.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist.

Former RCMP deputy commissioner on the shooting

Police arrived at Tumbler Ridge Secondary school within two minutes of receiving a call about the shooting. Former RCMP deputy commissioner Pierre-Yves Bourduas highlighted the quick response while speaking to CTV’s Your Morning on Wednesday.

“Premier Eby mentioned at a press conference that the RCMP response was immediate,” Bourduas said from Ottawa. “In his comments, he’s indicated that chances are, that prevented further [casualties from happening] because of the quick response of the RCMP.”

Bourduas said police will now be gathering evidence from the scene and conducting interviews in order to establish a motive.

“I’m sure that’s the main question that a lot of people have in mind this morning, following this terrible tragedy, is why,” Bourduas said. “Currently, the RCMP, I’m sure, are working day and night trying to secure as much information as possible to be able to share with the public.”

Daniel Otis, CTVNews.ca writer

PM postpones plans

Carney has officially cancelled a planned trip to Germany where he was set to attend the Munich Security Conference.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Carney will be staying in Ottawa following the events in Tumbler Ridge.

The public safety minister, housing minister, B.C. premier, and two B.C. ministers, meanwhile, are travelling to Tumbler Ridge.

Three cabinet ministers are still set to travel to Germany for the conference, while the Liberals’ previously scheduled announcement of their defence industrial strategy has been postponed.

Spencer Van Dyk, Ottawa News Bureau producer

Canadian Olympic team ‘heartbroken’

Team Canada issued a statement at the Milan Cortina Olympics on Wednesday, saying their “thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, those who are injured, and the entire Tumbler Ridge community.”

“Team Canada stands with everyone affected as they navigate difficult days ahead,” the statement added.

The Associated Press. Read the full story here.

La Loche, Sask., extends message of solidarity

Weeks after marking 10 years since its own deadly shooting, a high school in La Loche, Sask., is extending its support and solidarity with Tumbler Ridge.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims, families, community members, and school staff. We stand with them in solidarity,” a post on the Dene High School Facebook page said Wednesday morning.

La Loche held a day of remembrance last month, marking 10 years since a shooting left four people dead in the northern Saskatchewan community on Jan. 22, 2016.

“This kind of pain is devastating,” said Buckley Belanger, the Member of Parliament for Desnethé–Missinippi–Churchill River, which includes La Loche.

“Many in northern Saskatchewan understand, all too well, the deep and lasting impact a tragedy such as this can have.”

Cole Davenport, CTV News Regina assignment editor. Read the full story here

Symbolic tributes in Toronto

In Toronto, the CN Tower said it would dim for five minutes at the top of each hour Tuesday night in honour of the victims.

“Tonight the CNTower will dim for 5 minutes at the top of each hour in honour of the victims of the attack in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia,” the organization said.

Jermaine Wilson, CTVNewsToronto.ca Journalist. Read the full story here

Condolences from U.S. ambassador

In a social media post Wednesday, U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra shared his condolences with those affected by the shooting.

“Our hearts and prayers are with the community of Tumbler Ridge and all of British Columbia today,” he wrote. “My personal prayer is that in these difficult times, they find the peace and comfort that only He can provide.”

Spencer Van Dyk, Ottawa News Bureau producer

Conservatives ask to cancel House sitting

The Conservatives have asked House Leader Steven MacKinnon to cancel today’s sitting, aside from ministerial statements, according to a spokesperson for the party.

MPs are currently in caucus meetings on Parliament Hill.

Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to speak in the House of Commons this afternoon.

Spencer Van Dyk, Ottawa News Bureau producer

Poilievre calls on Canadians to pray

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called on Canadians to pray for those affected on Wednesday.

“Obviously we are all devastated by the news of this appalling shooting in Tumbler Ridge. The fact that this took place at a secondary school makes it even more tragic,” he said.

“As a father, I can’t even imagine the phone calls that parents might have received, I can’t imagine the heartache and hell that they’re living through at this moment. This is a time for all Canadians to unite to support the families and the community at large.”

Rachel Aiello, CTV National News correspondent

‘None of us have got the answers,’ Tumbler Ridge pastor says

A local pastor in Tumbler Ridge said he and other spiritual leaders in the community were offering support to families in the aftermath of the shooting.

“The idea was to be just available,” George Rowe, pastor at Tumbler Ridge Fellowship Baptist Church, told CTV’s Your Morning on Wednesday.

“I don’t have the answers; none of us have got the answers, but just to come alongside our people and let them know that they’re loved and we’re with them.”

Rowe said he and other pastors were “out and about” after a community-wide lockdown was lifted Tuesday. Many people had gathered at the local recreation centre, including some of the families of the victims, he said.

“I think the big thing that hit me was (people) not knowing, ‘Did my child survive this?’ That was just a heartbreaking situation,” said Rowe. “Outside of that, we as pastors, we just go in and be there.”

Rowe said the local pastors were planning to meet Wednesday and Thursday to help plan for the days and weeks ahead.

“We’ve got help coming in, we’ve got people calling from literally all over the country; they want to come in and offer counseling services, so we’re making our churches available where possible,” he said.

The feeling in the small community the day after the shooting was difficult to explain, Rowe added. “We’re so grateful that so many of our kids got out of there alive,” he said, “but yet so heartbroken that some of them didn’t make it.”

Jordan Fleguel, CTVNews.ca journalist

Liberal MP emphasizes impact in small community

“It’s unthinkable. It’s a massive tragedy. It’s in a very small community, so it’ll be very difficult to deal with this,” said Liberal MP Stephen Fuhr.

“I mean, who do you lean on when your entire community is affected by tragedies of this magnitude that we don’t see in this country very often?” the Kelowna, B.C., MP said Wednesday.

“Almost every single person will be affected directly. I’m sure, if you do the math and you connect the web that weaves out to that community, who do you lean on when everybody’s affected? It’ll be very difficult to move forward for that community.”

Rachel Aiello, CTV National News correspondent

Green Party leader: ‘Unspeakable’

Green Party Leader Elizabeth May spoke about the shooting Wednesday, saying “It’s incomprehensible, which means all we can say is that we send deepest condolences.”

The longtime B.C. MP, who represents the riding of Saanich-Gulf Islands, said, “I’m sure first responders are going to need a lot of support emotionally for what they have gone through being the first to show up to open the school doors. It’s unspeakable, it’s a terrible tragedy, and we mourn with those who’ve lost so much.”

Rachel Aiello, CTV National News correspondent

Interim NDP leader: ‘Cruel irony’

Interim NDP Leader Don Davies addressed the incident at a news conference ahead of Kindness Week, which runs Feb. 15 to 21.

“I also want to express my deepest condolences to the victims, the families, the friends in the community of Tumbler Ridge as they recover from the horrific attack that occurred last night in British Columbia,” said Davies, who has represented the Vancouver Kingsway constituency since 2008.

“It strikes me that as we gather here today to mark National Kindness Week, there’s a cruel irony to that, but also perhaps a profound symmetry, as we gather across party lines to focus on the opposite of what happened yesterday, which is the coming together in humanity and kindness.”

Rachel Aiello, CTV National News correspondent

Carney grieves

Prime Minister Mark Carney shared a response on social media, saying that he connected with B.C. Premier David Eby and is co-ordinating a federal response with Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree.

“I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed irreversibly today, and in gratitude for the courage and selflessness of the first responders who risked their lives to protect their fellow citizens,” Carney said.

“Our ability to come together in crisis is the best of our country — our empathy, our unity, and our compassion for each other.”

Soon after, the Prime Minister’s Office released a statement that Carney will postpone both a defence announcement in Halifax on Wednesday and his planned trip to Germany for the Munich Security Conference.

Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre said he was devastated to hear of “the many innocent people murdered and injured in a senseless act of violence.”

CTVNews.ca staff. Read the full story here

U.K.’s Starmer weighs in

“This morning, I conveyed the U.K.’s deepest condolences to Prime Minister Carney and the people of Canada for the devastating shooting in Tumbler Ridge,” said British Prime Minister Kier Starmer, delivering his opening remarks to that country’s House of Commons.

Luca Caruso-Moro, CTVNews.ca journalist.

‘Wrap these families with love’

Hours after one of the worst mass shootings in Canadian history, B.C. Premier David Eby urged people across the province to throw their support behind those grieving in Tumbler Ridge.

“We can’t imagine what the community is going through, but I know it’s causing us all to hug our kids a little bit tighter,” Eby said at a news conference in downtown Vancouver.

“Wrap these families with love—not just tonight, but tomorrow and into the future. This is something that will reverberate for years to come.”

Andrew Weichel, CTVNewsVancouver.ca journalist. Read the full story here