RCMP release more details following mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge

The following story may be disserting for some readers.

The BC RCMP has corrected the death toll of yesterday’s horrific mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge to 9, including the shooter. They’ve also released more details about what they know so far.

RCMP have confirmed the shooter has been identified as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, a resident of Tumbler Ridge, who they say had a history of interaction with police. They add, she had dropped out of school 4 years ago, and was not currently attending Tumbler Ridge Secondary.

RCMP also confirmed that they had attended her family home multiple times in the past, including for mental health calls and at least one incident where firearms had been confiscated, but say in this case no charges had been laid and they were eventually returned. When pressed for details, RCMP confirmed that Van Rootselaar had a valid firearms license in the past, but it had since expired. They could not confirm if Van Rootselaar was currently receiving any treatment for mental health issues, but said they had no recent interactions with her.

When questioned about the firearms used, RCMP confirmed a handgun and a long gun were confiscated from the scene, but could not confirm how they were used in the shootings, nor how they were purchased, or if they were considered legal or illegal. RCMP say, determining these details is a primary focus of the ongoing investigation.

RCMP have also confirmed that the separate residence where two victims had been found was the family home of Van Rootselaar, and the victims discovered inside, her 39-year-old mother, and 11-year-old step brother.

RCMP say the killings at the residence occurred first. They have also confirmed that shots were still being fired inside the school when they arrived, including shots fired in the direction of police. RCMP confirmed responding officers arrived within two minutes of receiving the call and did not return fire, The shooter was found inside the building with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. This is when the evacuation of more than 100 students and staff began.

Authorities add that the families of the victims are still being notified, and the difficult work remains ongoing. They say many of the victims are young, and as a result, police do not want to further traumatize those affected, and are proceeding with a trauma-informed response. Five students between the ages of 12 and 17, and a 39-year old woman serving as an educator are confirmed to have been killed inside the school.

Crisis supports are available local in Tumbler Ridge at the community center on 340 Front Street, and the Province itself has stressed that those in need of support, can call the BC Mental Health Support Line at 250 310-6789 or
Kids Help Phone by Texting “CONNECT” to 686868