Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visited Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, laying flowers at a memorial for the eight people killed in a shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The visit, which included the heads of opposition parties, was described as a show of national solidarity.
A Community in Grief
The shooting unfolded on Tuesday, with the perpetrator, identified as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, first killing her 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old stepbrother at their home. She then went to the school, where she killed five students and one teacher before taking her own life.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police stated that Van Rootselaar was “hunting” and that there was “no specific targeting of any individuals.” An RCMP officer maintained a presence outside the shooter’s home, which was cordoned off with police tape.
Impact and Response
Mr. Carney cancelled a scheduled trip to the Munich Security Conference to address the tragedy. He described Tumbler Ridge as a town representing “the very best of Canada: resilient, compassionate and strong.” He too stated in parliament that the victims “bore witness to unheard-of cruelty.”
Residents of the town of 2,400 expressed weariness with media attention, with a sign requesting media to stay out posted at the community centre. Despite the tragedy, signs of normalcy were visible, including children playing hockey at the local ice rink.
Remembering the Victims
Sarah Lampert spoke to the media about her 12-year-old daughter, Ticaria, saying she had “a beautiful, strong voice that was silenced.” Zoey Benoit, also 12, was remembered as “resilient, vibrant, smart, caring and the strongest little girl you could meet.” Peter Schofield mourned his 13-year-old grandson, Ezekiel, stating, “Everything feels so surreal.”
Pastor George Rowe expressed confidence in the community’s ability to cope, saying, “This will not break us. I think we’re going to be OK.” The shooter’s estranged father, Justin Van Rootselaar, issued a statement via CBC expressing sorrow for a “senseless and unforgivable act of violence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the RCMP say about the shooting?
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said Jesse Van Rootselaar was “hunting” and that there was “no specific targeting of any individuals.”
Where did the shooting take place?
The shooting began at Van Rootselaar’s home and continued at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, located 1,180km north of Vancouver.
How did the Prime Minister respond?
Prime Minister Mark Carney cancelled a trip to the Munich Security Conference and made an emotional address to parliament, describing the tragedy as an act of “unheard-of cruelty.”
How will the community of Tumbler Ridge move forward in the wake of this tragedy?
