The small town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, is shrouded in unimaginable grief. A senseless act of violence has stolen lives and shattered a community, leaving behind a landscape of profound sorrow and unanswered questions. The names of those lost are now etched into the collective memory, a heartbreaking testament to the tragedy that unfolded.
Twelve-year-old Abel Mwansa, remembered by his mother for his bright spirit and everyday routines, is among the fallen. His father’s poignant Facebook post speaks volumes: “You were a great son, still remain a great one to me.” Alongside him, thirteen-year-old Ezekiel Schofield, described as an “amazing child” with an ever-present smile, and Kylie Smith, a “beautiful, kind, innocent soul” according to her aunt, were also tragically taken.
The list of victims continues to grow, each name representing a life brimming with potential. Zoey Benoit, a vibrant 12-year-old, and Ticaria Lampert, affectionately known as Tiki, a loving and humorous girl who cherished her siblings, are forever missed. Shannda Aviugana-Durand, 39, and Jennifer Jacobs, also 39, were tragically lost, leaving behind families devastated by their absence.
Eleven-year-old Emmett Jacobs also perished in the horrific events. The weight of this loss is almost unbearable, a stark reminder of the innocence stolen. A young girl, Maya Edmonds, remains in critical condition, clinging to life in a Vancouver hospital, her fate uncertain and a source of agonizing hope for her loved ones.
The initial shock has given way to a wave of support and remembrance. Prime Minister Mark Carney will travel to Tumbler Ridge on Friday, accompanied by party leaders, to stand in solidarity with the community during a planned vigil. The outpouring of grief is palpable, a shared burden of sorrow felt across the nation.
Amidst the devastation, stories of courage are beginning to emerge. First responders arrived at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School within minutes of the initial reports, facing active gunfire to protect students and staff. Their bravery undoubtedly saved lives, a beacon of hope in the face of unimaginable horror.
The investigation is ongoing, seeking to understand the motive behind this senseless act. Authorities have identified the shooter as Jesse Van Rootselaar, an 18-year-old, and confirmed the deaths of Van Rootselaar’s mother and stepbrother at a nearby residence. A history of police attendance at the family home, related to mental health and firearms, is now under scrutiny.
The timeline reveals a disturbing sequence of events, beginning with an incident at the family home before the shooter turned their violence towards the school. Police were unaware of the situation at the home until after the school shooting, highlighting the speed and unexpected nature of the tragedy.
The community is rallying together, offering support and comfort to those affected. An online book of condolences provides a space for shared grief and remembrance, a testament to the enduring power of human connection in the face of unimaginable loss. The road to healing will be long, but the spirit of Tumbler Ridge remains unbroken.
Dennis Campbell, president of the Tumbler Ridge Minor Hockey Association, knew all the victims personally. His daughter, Quinn, shared friendships with Abel, describing him as “a good, kind-hearted soul.” The devastation is deeply personal, a community ripped apart by the loss of its children and loved ones.
Premier David Eby, visibly moved, has promised a thorough investigation into the events leading up to the shooting, vowing to uncover answers regarding mental health support and firearms regulations. The province has declared a day of mourning, a moment for collective reflection and remembrance.
