A devastating school shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, has left at least nine people dead and 27 others wounded, marking one of the deadliest acts of violence in Canada in decades. The tragedy unfolded on February 10, 2026, at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, a small institution serving a tight-knit community of roughly 2,400 residents in northeastern British Columbia.
According to authorities, the attack began shortly after 2:00 p.m. local time when reports of an active shooter prompted an immediate response from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Within minutes, officers arrived at the school, where they encountered an active and chaotic situation. Students and teachers quickly initiated lockdown procedures, barricading doors with desks and chairs as gunfire echoed through the building.
By the time police secured the premises, multiple victims had been found. Six people were pronounced dead at the school, while another victim died en route to the hospital. Authorities later confirmed that two additional victims were discovered at a nearby residence connected to the suspect.
The suspected attacker, identified as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, was found dead at the scene from what police believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators say the suspect acted alone and had previously attended the school.
Timeline of the Attack
Police believe the violence began earlier at a residence, where two family members of the suspect were killed before the attacker traveled to the school. Once inside, the suspect reportedly moved through the building indiscriminately, targeting anyone encountered. Officials later described the attacker’s actions as “hunting” victims rather than targeting specific individuals.
The school remained under lockdown for more than two hours as law enforcement cleared classrooms and escorted students to safety. Witnesses described scenes of fear and confusion, with many students hiding silently while texting loved ones. Some classrooms were completely barricaded as teachers tried to protect their students.
Victims and Community Impact
The victims include a teacher and several students, many between the ages of 12 and 13. The loss has deeply shaken the small town, where nearly everyone knows one another. Community members have gathered for vigils, leaving flowers and candles as a symbol of mourning and solidarity.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and British Columbia Premier David Eby expressed condolences, calling the attack one of the worst tragedies in the country’s recent history. Flags were lowered to half-mast across Canada as the nation grieves.
Injuries and Medical Response
Of the 27 people injured, several suffered serious wounds, with some airlifted to hospitals in larger cities for urgent treatment. Emergency services responded swiftly, and officials have credited first responders with preventing even greater loss of life.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate how the suspect obtained the firearms used in the attack. Reports indicate that multiple weapons, including a long gun and a modified rifle, were recovered from both the school and the suspect’s residence.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Investigators are examining the suspect’s background, online activity, and potential warning signs leading up to the incident. Early findings suggest the attacker may have had a history of mental health struggles, though officials caution against drawing conclusions while the investigation is ongoing.
National Reflection
Mass shootings are relatively rare in Canada, a country known for strict gun control laws. However, this tragedy has reignited debate over firearm access, mental health resources, and school safety measures.
For the residents of Tumbler Ridge, the road to recovery will be long. Schools in the area have been closed indefinitely, and counseling services are being provided to students, families, and staff.
As the nation mourns, the tragedy stands as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence—even in communities that once felt far removed from such horrors.
