B.C. School Shooting Suspect Identified; 6 Students Killed, Prior Mental Health History Noted
Feb 12, 2026: Canadian authorities have identified the suspect in a deadly shooting that left eight people dead and 25 injured in the community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia.
At a press conference, Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that the suspect was 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, a resident of Tumbler Ridge. Police said the suspect died at the scene from what investigators believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Victims Include Students, Educator and Family Members
According to police, six of the victims were killed at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Those deceased include a 39-year-old female educator, three 12-year-old girls, and two boys aged 12 and 13.
Two additional victims were found at a nearby residence. Authorities confirmed they were the suspect’s 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old stepbrother.
Earlier reports had indicated a higher fatality figure, but police later clarified that eight people died in total. Twenty-five others were injured during the incident.
Officials stated that most of the injured did not suffer gunshot wounds, though specific details about their conditions have not been released. Two individuals were transported to hospital by air ambulance.
Police said most of the student victims were born in 2012 or 2013.
Timeline of the Incident
Investigators said the violence began at a residence before unfolding at the secondary school.
At approximately 1:30 p.m. local time, emergency services received reports of an active shooter at the school. Officers arrived within minutes, heard gunfire, and entered the building. The suspect was located shortly afterward.
Authorities later confirmed that the two family members found dead at the residence were related to the suspect. Police were alerted to the home after a young female family member went to a neighbor’s house seeking help.
Weapons and Investigation
Two firearms — described as a long gun and a modified handgun — were recovered at the school. Investigators have not yet provided details about how the weapons were obtained or the specific role each firearm played.
Police stated that the suspect did not have any firearms registered at the time of the shooting. An expired firearms license was noted. Authorities also confirmed that firearms had previously been seized from the family residence approximately two years ago, but were later returned to their lawful owner following a legal process.
Background and Motive
Police disclosed that officers had previously attended the suspect’s family home multiple times over several years in relation to mental health concerns. On some occasions, interactions reportedly involved issues related to weapons.
The suspect had also been apprehended under mental health legislation in the past for assessment and follow-up.
Van Rootselaar had left the secondary school approximately four years ago and was not enrolled at the time of the shooting.
When asked about a possible motive, Deputy Commissioner McDonald said investigators “do not have an idea yet” and that determining the reason behind the attack remains a priority. Authorities also stated there is currently no evidence suggesting that specific victims at the school were targeted.
Police further said there is no information to indicate that bullying related to gender identity played a role in the incident.
Community Response
Mental health support services have been made available to students, families, and community members. A support space has been established at the Tumbler Ridge Community Centre, where counselors and professionals are providing assistance.
Local officials and community leaders have expressed condolences to the families affected and emphasized the importance of coming together during the recovery process.
Authorities confirmed there are no outstanding suspects and believe the individual acted alone. The investigation remains ongoing as forensic teams continue examining evidence and interviewing witnesses.
