An 18-year-old has been identified as the suspect in a mass shooting that left eight people dead and more than two dozen injured in the small Canadian town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that Jesse Van Rootselaar was found dead at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities say the motive behind the attack remains under investigation, and no other suspects are believed to be involved.
The violence began at a nearby home, where the suspect’s 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old stepbrother were found dead. Police said the shooting at the residence occurred before the gunman went to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.
At the school, six people were killed: a 39-year-old female educator, three 12-year-old girls, and two boys aged 12 and 13. At least 25 others were injured, with two victims airlifted to a hospital where they remain in critical condition.
According to BBC News, speaking at a news conference, RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald said the suspect had previously held a valid gun licence that had since lapsed. Two firearms,a long gun and a modified handgun, were recovered at the scene. It is still unclear how each weapon was used during the attack.
Police revealed they had responded to multiple calls at the suspect’s family home over several years, some related to mental health concerns. British Columbia Premier David Eby said authorities are reviewing any past interactions with the public healthcare system.
Officers arrived at the school within two minutes of receiving reports of an active shooter around 13:30 local time. They entered the building while gunfire was ongoing and located the suspect shortly after.
Tumbler Ridge, home to about 2,400 residents, is described as a close-knit community. Mayor Darryl Krakowka urged residents to support one another, saying, “Lend your ear when someone needs your ear. Lend your shoulder when someone needs your shoulder.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the attack, stating that students and teachers “bore witness to unheard of cruelty,” as the nation grapples with yet another devastating act of violence.
