Police Have Revealed Identity Of Perpetrator

USPA NEWS - As per the RCMP, the suspect was found deceased at the scene due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities confirm the investigation is ongoing, and the motive has yet to be determined.

RCMP Superintendent Ken Floyd stated, “At this stage of the investigation, we are not in a place to be able to understand why and what may have motivated this tragedy.”

A suspect has been identified in connection with the tragic school shooting that occurred in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, as Jesse Van Rootselaar, an 18-year-old trans woman.

Eight people were killed and 27 others were injured, including two individuals reported to be in serious or life-threatening condition.

At Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, the victims included a 39-year-old teacher, three 12-year-old girls, and two boys aged 12 and 13. Most of the victims were found in the school library, with one located in a stairwell. Prior to the school attack, Van Rootselaar’s 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old stepbrother were found deceased at a nearby residence.

Police recovered two firearms at the scene. A long gun and a modified handgun RCMP are continuing to investigate their origins and how they were used.

Van Rootselaar left Tumbler Ridge Secondary School approximately four years ago. Police confirmed that officers had previously attended the family residence in relation to mental health concerns. During one visit two years ago, firearms were seized under the Criminal Code; however, they were later returned to their lawful owner following a legal petition.

Van Rootselaar's firearms licence had expired in 2024, and investigators confirmed that she did not have any currently registered firearms at the time of the incident.

Eight people were killed and 27 others were injured, including two individuals reported to be in serious or life-threatening condition.

Following a devastating tragedy, hundreds of residents convened in Tumbler Ridge's main square and outside the British Columbia legislature in Victoria to honor the victims and underscore their community's resilience. Vigils took place, and moments of silence were held, as the community and the broader province united in solidarity, focusing on healing and positive change.