Victims Named in Tumbler Ridge Mass Shooting: Community Mourns Eight Lives Lost, Including Six Children
Authorities have released the names of all eight victims killed in the February 10 mass shooting in the remote British Columbia town of Tumbler Ridge, a tragedy that has devastated a close-knit community of just 2,500 residents and stunned Canada. The attack, one of the deadliest school shootings in the nation’s history, claimed the lives of six children and two adults before the 18-year-old suspect took her own life.
The victims include:
Kylie Smith, 12
Abel Mwansa, 12
Zoey Benoit, 12
Ticaria Lampert, 12
Ezekiel Schofield, 13
Shannda Aviugana-Durand, 39, a teaching assistant at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School
Additionally, the suspect, Jesse Van Rootselaar, fatally shot her 39-year-old mother, Jennifer Strang (also identified in some reports as Jennifer Jacobs), and her 11-year-old stepbrother at their family home on Feller Avenue before proceeding to the school. At least 25 others were injured, with several still in critical condition.
bbc.com
Police identify 18-year-old as suspect in Tumbler Ridge shootings
The small Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, serving 175 students in Grades 7-12, became the scene of unimaginable horror when Van Rootselaar, a former student who dropped out about four years earlier, entered and opened fire in the library and other areas. RCMP confirmed she acted alone, using firearms legally owned at one point but with a lapsed license. Police had visited the family home multiple times over the years for mental health-related welfare checks and apprehensions under the Mental Health Act.
cp24.com
Tumbler Ridge shooting: More details on back-to-school plan
Van Rootselaar, born biologically male and transitioning to female about six years ago, had a documented history of mental health struggles. Investigations continue into her motive, with authorities examining online activity—including posts about guns, hunting, and a removed Roblox mass shooting simulator—and prior interactions with law enforcement. Autopsies on all victims and the suspect were expected to conclude soon after the incident.
panow.com
Tumbler Ridge students won’t ‘return to current school site’ after mass shooting | paNOW
In the aftermath, the tight-knit mountain community has come together in grief. Candlelit vigils have filled the nights, with residents laying flowers, teddy bears, stuffed animals, handwritten notes, and candles at impromptu memorials near the school and family home. Families described the victims as kind, talented children full of promise—dreamers who loved art, sports, and their friends. Shannda Aviugana-Durand was remembered as a dedicated educator who cared deeply for her students.
cbc.ca
Langley vigil honours victims of Tumbler Ridge mass shooting, including former local student | CBC News
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and provincial leaders offered condolences, with support services deployed for counseling and trauma care. The school remains closed, with plans to use portable classrooms or alternative sites for resuming classes. National debates have intensified around mental health resources, rural gun access, and early intervention in cases of concerning behavior.
usatoday.com
Scenes from Tumbler Ridge as community grieves deadly school shooting
Tumbler Ridge, nestled in the foothills of the Rockies, was once known for its peaceful mining life. Now, yellow police tape and memorials mark the landscape, a somber reminder of lives forever changed. As the community heals, tributes continue to grow—symbols of love, loss, and a shared resolve to support one another through unimaginable pain.
cbc.ca
