B.C. RCMP reveal names of Tumbler Ridge shooting victims; eight dead, suspect deceased. Support services are available 24/7 for those in need.
B.C. RCMP Name Victims of Tumbler Ridge Tragedy
British Columbia is mourning after a devastating shooting in Tumbler Ridge left eight people dead, including children and an educator. The B.C. RCMP have now released the names and ages of the victims, shedding light on the lives lost in this small northeastern community.
The shooting occurred on Feb. 10, spanning two locations. Six people were killed at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, while two others died at a home in the area.
Suspected Shooter Dead
The suspected gunman, Jesse Van Rootselaar, died from a self-inflicted injury. Police found him inside the school, where most of the victims were. Investigators believe he first killed the two family members at a residence on Fellers Avenue before moving to the school.
Remembering the Victims
At the home, 11-year-old Emmett Jacobs and 39-year-old Jennifer Jacobs—Van Rootselaar’s stepbrother and mother—tragically lost their lives.
At the high school, the victims were:
- 12-year-old Abel Mwansa
- 13-year-old Ezekiel Schofield
- 12-year-old Kylie Smith
- 12-year-old Zoey Benoit
- 12-year-old Ticaria Lampert
- 39-year-old teacher Shannda Aviugana-Durand
Each of these lives touched the community, leaving a deep sense of grief and loss.
Support Services Available 24/7
The RCMP remind residents that help is available around the clock. Anyone struggling with the aftermath can contact:
- 310-Mental Health Support: 310-6789
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: 988
- KUU-US (Indigenous) Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717
- Métis Crisis Line: 1-833-638-4722
The community continues to rally around the families, offering support and resources to those affected.
