The BC RCMP have officially confirmed the identities of all 8 victims of Tuesday’s mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, and have released photos and statements on behalf on the families.
It’s now been confirmed that those killed at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School were 12-year-olds Abel Mwansa, Kylie Smith, Zoey Benoit, Ticaria Lampert, 13-year-old Ezekiel Schofield, and educator Shannda Aviugana-Durand, 39.
11-year-old Emmett Jacobs, and 39-year-old Jennifer Jacobs, the mother and step-brother of the perpetrator, had also been killed at their family home on Fellers Avenue.
A statement from Zoey Benoit’s family reads:
“Our beautiful Zoey, our daughter, sister, niece, grand daughter and friend. She was so resilient, vibrant, smart, caring and the strongest little girl you could meet. She brought so much laughter and smiles in her presence. She loved spending time with her family where she could show her love. Our family is devastated by this loss, but we will cherish her memories with us so close to our hearts forever. She will forever be loved and never forgotten. We miss you beautiful girl, Zoey we love you so much.” – The family of Zoey Benoit
The family of Kylie Smith had said:
“Kylie was the light in our family. She loved her family, friends, and going to school. She was a talented artist and had dreams of going to art school in the big city of Toronto. Rest in paradise, sweet girl, our family will never be the same without you.” – The family of Kylie Smith
BC RCMP Commanding Officer, Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, reiterated that the RCMP stands with Tumbler Ridge, and they will be doing all they can to support the community moving forward.
“The BC RCMP offers sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to the entire Tumbler Ridge community that is grieving alongside them. This is a time of deep sorrow, and many are still processing the weight of this tragedy. We will continue to support the families, respect their wishes, and walk with the community as it begins the long journey toward healing,” –Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, BC RCMP Commanding Officer.
The BC RCMP has stressed that it is essential the focus in the coming days remains on the victims, their families, and those affected by the tragedy.
At least 27 other people had been injured during the shooting, most having been treated on-scene. Two victims had been medevacked to the lower mainland in serious condition, with the family of 12-year-old Maya Gebala confirming she is currently fighting for her life at the BC Children’s Hospital.
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