By Bevin Kutluoglu, correspondent
(Note: I had multiple people offer to help me write stuff, and I mentioned to Bevin that he could keep an eye open for anything coming out of the RCMP. He wrote this story for me, which I know covers much of the same ground as Naomi’s but I didn’t not want to run it, as he did it as a kindness, and I want to celebrate kindness at this moment.)
As the active investigation into February 10’s tragedy in Tumbler Ridge contines, RCMP officials Sergeant Vanessa Munn and Deputy Commissioner Dwayne MacDonald took to the podium at about 2 pm PST (1pm MT) on February 11 in an attempt to provide answers for the public.
MacDonald, after providing a brief review of the incident, answered questions, stating they are working hard to bring answers to the people, but also ensuring they are only disclosing information once they are certain that it is accurate. In an incident such as this, MacDonald states, “We need to approach this with a trauma-informed practice; we don’t want to create additional trauma for families that are dealing with probably the worst circumstances of their lives.”
During the press conference, police remind the public several times that this investigation is in its infancy, and while a motive is still unclear, they have identified the suspect, who was found at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, deceased with an apparently self-inflicted injury, as Jesse Van Rootselaar, an 18-year-old resident of the community.
Two victims were found deceased at the suspect’s residence, 112 Fellers Avenue, and have been identified as the suspect’s mother, 39, and stepbrother, 11. Police released the address but asked media and the public not to attend the scene, as it is still locked down for the investigation.
Police now know that the incident began at the Fellers Avenue home, with the suspect then proceeding across town to the school. The timeline was hazy originally as police were alerted to the active shooter at the school prior to any knowledge of the residential scene.
MacDonald reiterated the importance of police releasing accurate information as he issued a correction from the initial death toll. Nine individuals were declared at the scene, including a 39-year-old female educator, three 12-year-old females, two males aged 12 and 13. Identities of the victims are not yet being released, as police continue to work to notify families. They also noted that because they were minors, the decision to release names to the public will remain with the families.
Investigations continue into the ownership and origin of the firearms recovered at the scene, a long gun and a modified hand gun. Van Rootselaar herself did not have a current license, and was noted to not have any firearms registered in her name.
February 12 has been declared a day of mourning in British Columbia, and across the country, Canadians stand with the small mountain community of Tumbler Ridge as they come to terms with something they never should have had to bear witness to.
Residents who find they need support during this time are encouraged to go to the Tumbler Ridge Community Centre, located at 340 Front Street. Telephone support is available at If you or someone you know is struggling, please know there is confidential help available. Here are just a few resources:
310 Mental Health Support at 310‑6789 for emotional support, information, and local resources
9‑8‑8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (call or text) for anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide or worried about someone else
Kid’s Help Phone, available by texting CONNECT to 686868
KUU‑US Crisis Response Service at 1‑800‑588‑8717 for culturally aware support for Indigenous peoples
