NATIONAL TRAGEDY: Tumbler Ridge Mourns as Victims of School Massacre Identified
A profound sense of grief has enveloped the small northern community of Tumbler Ridge following the horrific mass shooting on February 10, 2026. Authorities have now officially released the identities of the eight victims lost in a rampage that has been described as one of the darkest days in Canadian history.
The Timeline of Terror
The violence began at a private residence on Fellers Avenue, where the 18-year-old shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, fatally shot her mother, Jennifer Jacobs (39), and her 11-year-old brother, Emmett Jacobs.
The suspect then drove to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, entering the building and opening fire in the library and stairwell areas. The attack claimed the lives of a dedicated educator and five young students before the shooter took her own life as police moved in.
Remembering the Victims
The RCMP has identified the victims at the school, most of whom were just beginning their teenage years:
- Shannda Aviugana-Durand (39): A beloved Educational Assistant known for her unwavering support of her students.
- Kylie Smith, Zoey Benoit, and Ticaria Lampert (all 12): Three young girls described by their families as “vibrant” and “full of dreams.”
- Abel Mwansa (12): A passionate soccer player and a friend to all.
- Ezekiel Schofield (13): A gentle soul whose grandfather described his loss as an “unending nightmare.”
A Glimmer of Hope Amidst the Pain
The eyes of the nation remain fixed on Maya Gebala (12), who is currently fighting for her life in a Vancouver hospital. Maya, who suffered critical injuries to her head and neck, has shown slight physical responses in the last 24 hours. Her classmates, who risked their lives to carry her to safety during the shooting, are being hailed as heroes.
Outcry Over “Systemic Failure”
The tragedy has ignited a firestorm of public debate regarding Canada’s mental health and firearm regulations. Investigations revealed that the shooter had a significant criminal record (rap sheet) involving mental health crises and drug-induced psychosis.
Public anger is specifically directed at the fact that firearms, previously seized by police during a 2024 intervention, had been returned to the household. Prime Minister Mark Carney has called for an emergency session in Parliament, stating, “We must address the cracks in our system that allowed this ‘ticking time bomb’ to go unnoticed.”
Community Response
A massive makeshift memorial has grown outside the school gates, adorned with flowers, hockey sticks, and art supplies. A national moment of silence is scheduled for Monday as the town prepares for a series of funerals that will likely see thousands in attendance.
Would you like me to focus on the legislative changes being proposed in Canada following this event, or shall I provide more details on the memorial services planned for the victims?
