On February 10, 2026, the tiny town of Tumbler Ridge was shaken by one of the worst mass shootings in Canadian history.

An 18-year-old former student, Jesse Van Rootselaar, first killed her mother and stepbrother at home, then drove to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Police got the call around 1:30 p.m. and were on scene in two minutes, likely stopping even more lives from being lost. In total, nine people died, including the shooter, and more than two dozen were injured.

The victims were kids, mostly 11 to 13 years old, plus a beloved teacher’s aide. Survivors are still recovering, including one 12-year-old girl fighting to heal in a Vancouver hospital.

We’re also learning more about the suspect’s history: past mental health interventions, prior firearm seizures from the home, and disturbing online activity. However, there’s still no clear motive.

The Government of British Columbia says students will never have to return to the original school building. Fourteen portable classrooms are being rushed in even as the town deals with brutal -40 degree wind chills. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Premier David Eby have both pledged support, but locals are worried long-term mental health resources could fade once the headlines do.

In a town of just 2,400 people, everyone knows everyone. The grief and recovery are personal. If you found this helpful, please like, share, and subscribe. Consider a paid subscription or buying me a coffee to help keep this content free and independent.

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