An 18-year-old has been named as the suspect in a shooting that killed eight people and injured dozens more in British Columbia, Canada. Police reported that Jesse Van Rootselaar was found dead at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot injury. The motive for the attack is still under investigation.
The tragic events unfolded at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School where six individuals lost their lives, while at least 25 others sustained injuries. Among the deceased were two of Van Rootselaar's family members – his mother and step-brother, found at a nearby residence.
Authorities revealed that while Van Rootselaar was born male, he identified as a woman. Dwayne McDonald, a deputy commissioner with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), stated that Van Rootselaar began transitioning approximately six years ago.
The shooting at the school occurred shortly after the incident at the family home, where the first victims were attacked. According to reports, the victims included a 39-year-old educator and several students aged between 12 and 13. Investigators do not believe there are any other suspects involved.
Notably, police had previously attended the suspect's family home multiple times, with some calls linked to mental health concerns. Van Rootselaar reportedly held a valid gun license at one point, although it had since lapsed.
Eyewitnesses noted that the police responded rapidly to reports of an active shooter, arriving within two minutes and finding the suspect deceased upon entry. Two firearms were discovered at the scene, but the exact involvement of these weapons in the shooting remains under scrutiny.
Tumbler Ridge, a small community with a population of about 2,400, holds close ties among its residents. Local authorities, including Mayor Darryl Krakowka, expressed profound sorrow, emphasizing that many in the community knew the victims personally. Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged the trauma faced by witnesses and victims, with some remaining hospitalized and "fighting for their lives." The investigation continues as the town grapples with this unimaginable tragedy.
The tragic events unfolded at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School where six individuals lost their lives, while at least 25 others sustained injuries. Among the deceased were two of Van Rootselaar's family members – his mother and step-brother, found at a nearby residence.
Authorities revealed that while Van Rootselaar was born male, he identified as a woman. Dwayne McDonald, a deputy commissioner with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), stated that Van Rootselaar began transitioning approximately six years ago.
The shooting at the school occurred shortly after the incident at the family home, where the first victims were attacked. According to reports, the victims included a 39-year-old educator and several students aged between 12 and 13. Investigators do not believe there are any other suspects involved.
Notably, police had previously attended the suspect's family home multiple times, with some calls linked to mental health concerns. Van Rootselaar reportedly held a valid gun license at one point, although it had since lapsed.
Eyewitnesses noted that the police responded rapidly to reports of an active shooter, arriving within two minutes and finding the suspect deceased upon entry. Two firearms were discovered at the scene, but the exact involvement of these weapons in the shooting remains under scrutiny.
Tumbler Ridge, a small community with a population of about 2,400, holds close ties among its residents. Local authorities, including Mayor Darryl Krakowka, expressed profound sorrow, emphasizing that many in the community knew the victims personally. Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged the trauma faced by witnesses and victims, with some remaining hospitalized and "fighting for their lives." The investigation continues as the town grapples with this unimaginable tragedy.
