The small British Columbia community of Tumbler Ridge is grappling with the aftermath of a school shooting on Tuesday that left eight people dead and six injured. Among those critically wounded is 12-year-old Maya Gebala, who is currently fighting for her life at B.C. Children’s Hospital in Vancouver.
A Community’s Hope and Grief
For Maya’s parents, Cia Edmonds and David Gebala, even the smallest sign of movement from their daughter—a twitch of the leg—brings a measure of hope after she required intubation and emergency medical care. Maya was one of six people shot at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The attack also claimed the lives of students, an educator, and the shooter’s mother and half-brother.
Edmonds expressed gratitude that her daughter survived, and is urging support for all families impacted by the tragedy. Social media has been flooded with messages of support for Maya, with many sharing an image of her smiling in a hockey helmet alongside photos reflecting her current condition. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help with her medical expenses.
Gebala described the outpouring of support as encouraging, but expressed frustration with social media posts that seek to politicize the event. He and Edmonds are particularly troubled by comments directed at Jennifer Strang, the mother of the 18-year-old shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, who also died in the attack.
Edmonds revealed she was friends with Strang and had previously babysat Van Rootselaar. She stated she mourns for all those affected, including Strang, noting the single mother worked long shifts at a nearby mine and “did everything she could to endeavor to help” her son, who had previously been hospitalized for mental health issues.
Heroism and Uncertainty
Details emerging from the scene paint a picture of courage amidst chaos. According to accounts, Maya attempted to protect her classmates by trying to lock the library door during the shooting. She was then struck by gunfire. Edmonds recounted being told that Maya has a bullet in her head and another in her neck.
The extent of Maya’s injuries remains critical. Surgeons have cautioned her parents that recovery is uncertain. Despite this, Gebala reported “incredible improvements,” including Maya coughing and moving her limbs. He and Edmonds are clinging to these small victories as they await further developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School?
A shooting occurred at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School on Tuesday, resulting in eight deaths, including students, an educator, and the shooter’s mother and half-brother. Six people were also injured, including 12-year-old Maya Gebala.
What is Maya Gebala’s current condition?
Maya Gebala is in critical condition at B.C. Children’s Hospital in Vancouver after being shot in the head and neck. Her parents report small improvements, but surgeons have cautioned that her recovery is uncertain.
What are Maya’s parents asking of the public?
Maya’s parents, Cia Edmonds and David Gebala, are asking for support for all the families affected by the shooting and are urging people to avoid politicizing the tragedy.
As Maya Gebala continues to fight for her life, what role will community support play in the long-term healing process for Tumbler Ridge?
