Police in British Columbia have identified an 18-year-old as the suspect in a deadly shooting that shook the small town of Tumbler Ridge, Canada. The attack left eight people dead and injured dozens more, triggering nationwide grief and renewed concern over gun violence and community safety. Authorities say the suspect died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and investigators are still working to establish a clear motive.
The incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon and involved two separate locations: a private residence and Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Police believe the violence began at the suspect’s home before moving to the school, where most of the casualties occurred. Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public, and they do not believe anyone else was involved.
What Happened During the Attack
Police named the suspect as Jesse Van Rootselaar, aged 18. Officers responding to the scene found the suspect dead from what they described as a self-inflicted gunshot injury. Investigators have not released details about what may have led to the attack, and they say it is too early to draw conclusions about intent or motivation.
Six people were killed at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, including a 39-year-old female teacher. Three female students, all aged 12, also lost their lives. Two male students, aged 12 and 13, were among the victims. Police said at least 25 others were injured during the shooting, some seriously.
At a nearby home, officers found two more victims dead. They identified them as the suspect’s mother, aged 39, and his 11-year-old stepbrother. Police believe the attack at the home happened first before the suspect went to the school.
Definition: Active Shooter Incident
An active shooter incident refers to a situation in which a person uses a firearm to harm people in a public or populated area, often before police can immediately stop the attack. Such incidents usually unfold quickly and require rapid response from emergency services.
Police Response and Timeline
Police received reports of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at about 1:30 p.m. local time. Officers arrived at the school within two minutes of the call. According to police, they heard gunfire as they approached and entered the building without delay.
Within minutes, officers located the suspect inside the school. Police confirmed that the suspect had already died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Officers then secured the building and began searching classrooms and hallways for victims.
Emergency responders treated the injured on site while arranging air and ground transport. Two victims were flown to hospital by air ambulance and remain under medical care. Authorities have not released updates on their conditions.
Weapons Found at the Scene
Police recovered two firearms at the school. These included a long gun and a modified handgun. Investigators say they are still examining how each weapon was used during the attack. Officials have not yet confirmed how the suspect obtained the firearms.
Police said the suspect previously held a valid gun licence, but it had expired. Authorities are reviewing records to understand how the weapons were acquired and whether any laws were broken in the process.
Suspect’s Background and Prior Police Contact
Authorities confirmed that the suspect was known to police. Officers had visited the family home several times over the past few years. Some of those visits involved mental health concerns, though police did not provide further details.
British Columbia Premier David Eby said officials have begun working with the public health system to understand any past interactions involving the suspect. He stressed that the review aims to learn lessons and improve prevention, not to assign blame prematurely.
Police also confirmed that the suspect had dropped out of Tumbler Ridge Secondary School four years earlier. Investigators are examining whether any past school-related issues may have played a role.
Definition: Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound
A self-inflicted gunshot wound occurs when a person causes injury or death to themselves using a firearm. In this case, police say the suspect died from such an injury at the scene.
Community Impact and National Reaction
Tumbler Ridge is a close-knit community of about 2,400 residents. The secondary school serves roughly 160 students in grades seven to twelve. Many residents know one another, which has deepened the sense of loss following the attack.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the shooting as an act of extreme cruelty. He said students and teachers endured unimaginable trauma and noted that some victims remain in hospital fighting for their lives. He offered condolences to families and pledged federal support for the community.
Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka said the town is united in grief. Speaking to reporters, he urged residents to support one another during the difficult days ahead. He encouraged people to listen, offer comfort, and remain compassionate as the community begins to heal.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
Police say the investigation remains active. Officers are gathering evidence, reviewing digital records, and speaking with witnesses to build a full picture of what happened. Authorities are also examining whether warning signs were missed and how future tragedies can be prevented.
Officials stressed that investigations of this nature take time and that they will share confirmed information as it becomes available. Mental health support services have been made available to students, staff, families, and first responders affected by the tragedy.
As Tumbler Ridge mourns its losses, leaders across Canada continue to call for conversations about public safety, mental health, and community support. For now, the focus remains on caring for survivors, honoring the victims, and helping a grieving town recover from an unthinkable event.