Where and when did the tragedy occur?
On February 10 in the afternoon, a shooting took place in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, Canada. The incident began at a private residence and later continued at a local school. The town has a population of around 2,400 people, and according to residents, it is a close-knit community where most people know one another.
Who were the victims?
Eight people lost their lives in the attack. At the school, a 39-year-old teacher and five students aged 12 to 13 (three girls and two boys) were killed. At the residence, a 39-year-old woman and an 11-year-old boy were fatally shot.
More than 20 others sustained injuries of varying severity and were transported to hospitals. Some of the injured are reported to be in critical condition.
Who carried out the attack?
According to law enforcement authorities, the shooting was carried out by 18-year-old Jessie Van Rutsellaar. She first shot and killed her mother and her brother at home, then went to the school she had left four years earlier.
After police officers arrived at the scene following an emergency call, the attacker took her own life. Reports indicate that she used a long-barreled rifle and a handgun during the attack.
What is known about the attacker?
Police stated that Jessie Van Rutsellaar was registered as male at birth but began a transgender transition approximately six years ago. In daily life and on social media, she identified herself as female.
Investigators emphasized that there is currently no evidence linking her gender identity to the attack.
Were there prior warning signs?
Authorities confirmed that police had previously received several calls related to incidents at the residence. In some cases, the calls were connected to concerns about the suspect’s mental health.
She had been referred for psychiatric evaluation. At one point, firearms legally stored in the home were confiscated but were later returned.
Official information indicates that Van Rutsellaar previously held a firearms license, which expired in 2024. No weapons were registered under her name. The ownership of the firearms found at the scene remains under investigation.
Have the motives been determined?
Investigators did not find a suicide note or any direct explanation outlining the motive behind the attack. There is also no confirmed evidence that she experienced violence at school related to her transgender transition.
Police believe she acted alone and likely did not target a specific individual.
How did officials respond?
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed condolences to the families of the victims. Flags were lowered across the country in mourning, and Parliament observed a minute of silence in honor of those who died.
The incident in Tumbler Ridge has been described as one of the deadliest mass killings in Canada’s history. Further details are available in the source.