BC RCMP have publicly confirmed the identities of the eight victims killed in Tuesday’s mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC, as the small northeastern community and the province continue to mourn.
In a release issued Thursday, police shared the names and ages of the victims from Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and a residence on Fellers Avenue.
Those killed at the school are:
- Abel Mwansa, 12
- Ezekiel Schofield, 13
- Kylie Smith, 12
- Zoey Benoit, 12
- Ticaria Lampert, 12
- Shannda Aviugana-Durand, 39
Police also confirmed two victims found at a residence:
- Emmett Jacobs, 11
- Jennifer Jacobs, 39
RCMP previously confirmed that nine people, including the suspect, died and 27 others were injured after officers responded to reports of an active shooter at the secondary school at approximately 1:20 p.m. on February 10th.
Police arrived within minutes and encountered gunfire as they approached the building.
The suspect, identified earlier this week as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, was located deceased inside the school with what appeared to be a self-inflicted injury. Police have said they believe the suspect acted alone and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
In Thursday’s statement, RCMP said the release of names, photos and family statements was done in consultation with loved ones.
“As the community continues to process this profound loss, it remains essential that the focus stays on the victims, their families, and all those affected by this tragedy,” police said.
Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald offered condolences on behalf of the force.
“The BC RCMP offers sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to the entire Tumbler Ridge community that is grieving alongside them,” McDonald said.
“We will continue to support the families, respect their wishes, and walk with the community as it begins the long journey toward healing.”
Several families shared tributes to their children.
Zoey Benoit, 12, was described by her family as resilient, vibrant and caring, someone who “brought so much laughter and smiles in her presence.”
Kylie Smith, also 12 and who had close ties to Vancouver Island, was remembered as “the light in our family.”
Her family said she loved art and dreamed of attending art school in Toronto.
Earlier this week, a GoFundMe campaign was launched by Kylie’s aunt to support the family with travel costs and memorial expenses.
RCMP said the families are requesting privacy as they navigate their grief and asked that the public and media respect their space.
The investigation remains ongoing under BC RCMP Major Crime.
