Tumbler Ridge grieves in the aftermath of school shooting

Nine lives were stolen from their families during a school shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, marking the darkest day in the community’s history

Victims photos from RCMP media release.

Tumbler Ridge RCMP were alerted to the active shooter at the school just after 1 p.m. on February 10 according to a media release and issued a public alert while responding.

Officers from Tumbler Ridge RCMP responded to the school within minutes of the call, where there was active gunfire as shots were being sent at officers while they responded to the scene.

Officers quickly entered the school and located the suspect shortly after, who was later identified as 18-year-old Tumbler Ridge resident Jesse Van Rootselaar. Police said the suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene after suffering what was believed to be a self-inflicted injury. Two firearms were located at the scene including a long gun and a modified handgun, and RCMP have yet to say where the weapons were obtained from.

“This was a rapidly evolving and dynamic situation, and the swift cooperation from the school, first responders, and the community played a critical role in our response,” said Superintendent Ken Floyd, North District Commander. “Our thoughts are with the families, loved ones, and all those impacted by this tragic incident. This has been an incredibly difficult and emotional day for our community, and we are grateful for the cooperation shown as officers continue their work to advance the investigation.”

Investigators said multiple victims were located throughout the school and said there were approximately 25 people who suffered possible injuries during this horrific attack. Police escorted more than 100 students and staff from the school to a community center once the scene was secure as officers conducted a thorough check of the school and surrounding area.

Anyone who suffered possible injuries were taken to a local clinic to be assessed, while two victims Maya and Paige were reported to have suffered serious injuries and transported to hospital by helicopter, where both currently remain.

Nine people, including the suspect, lost their lives due to the horrific violence that occurred on February 10, the darkest day in Tumbler Ridge History. 

Victims from Tumbler Ridge Secondary School included 12-year-olds Abel Mwansa, Kylie Smith, Zoey Benoit and Ticaria Lampert, 13-year-old Ezekiel Schofield, and 39-year-old Shannda Aviugana-Durand.

Victims 11-year-old Emmett Jacobs and 39-year-old Jennifer Jacobs, stepbrother and mother to the suspect were found at a residence on Fellers Avenue.

Victims 39-year-old Jennifer Jacobs and 11-year-old Emmett Jacobs, mother and stepbrother to the suspect - RCMP Photo

The RCMP Major Crime Unit has taken control of the investigation and will be working to determine what lead to the tragic incident, while ongoing support has been provided by officers from neighbouring detachments as well.

“We understand the community has questions and wants to understand the motive behind this tragic incident. We do believe the suspect acted alone and there are currently no other outstanding suspects. Our investigators remain on scene, actively gathering information to determine the full circumstances of what transpired,” says Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, BC RCMP Commanding Officer. "I believe everyone can appreciate that the families are navigating profound loss and trauma. All efforts are focused on determining the appropriate next steps, including decisions around if, when, and how names or photos may be released. The families are fully engaged in these discussions, and we are working with them to provide an update as soon as possible."

The investigation has many working parts such as physical and digital evidence being collected and processed, including footage from body-worn cameras on BC RCMP being closely reviewed.

The RCMP have stated that they are prioritizing the analysis of two firearms which include the long gun and modified rifle, both were located at the school.

Two other firearms are being analyzed from the residence including a shotgun which is believed to be involved in the homicides that took the lives of Jennifer and Emmett Jacobs.

More than 80 students, educators, and first responders have been interviewed so far, while additional interviews with further witnesses are still underway.

An assessment of the suspect’s digital footprint and online activity is being analyzed by a specialized team of investigators according to the media release, while previous professionals and police interactions are reviewed.

“The BC RCMP offers sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to the entire Tumbler Ridge community that is grieving alongside them.

This is a time of deep sorrow, and many are still processing the weight of this tragedy.

We will continue to support the families, respect their wishes, and walk with the community as it begins the long journey toward healing,” says Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, BC RCMP Commanding Officer. 

This tragic shooting and senseless loss of life has shaken the Peace Region to its core, reverberating around the world as world leaders sent their prayers and condolences.

“My wife and I were profoundly shocked and saddened to learn of the most dreadful attack at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia. We can only express our deepest possible sympathy to the families who are grieving the unimaginable loss of their loved ones and those still awaiting news from hospital,” said King Charles.

For now, a grieving community is left to mourn the lives lost and support those impacted, as Tumbler Ridge faces the long road toward healing together.