February 12, 2026
RED FM News Desk
A province-wide “Day of Mourning” has been declared in British Columbia today to honor the victims of the horrific mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge. In light of the tragedy, the provincial government has canceled the scheduled Speech from the Throne. Instead, the Legislative Assembly will observe two minutes of silence at noon, followed by a special address at 2 p.m. PT by Lt.-Gov. Wendy Cocchia, dedicated entirely to the grieving community.
Premier David Eby visited Tumbler Ridge last night, appearing visibly emotional as he spoke from the small mining town. “It’s horrifying and inspirational at the same time,” the Premier stated, remarking on the profound resilience displayed by the residents during this dark period. The Premier attended a vigil outside the town hall alongside Federal Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree and the local mayor to pay his respects.
The mass shooting claimed the lives of nine people, including the suspect. Most of the victims were found inside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, while the bodies of the shooter’s 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old brother were discovered at the family home. The scale of the violence has left the rural community and the entire province in a state of deep shock.
The RCMP has identified the shooter as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar. Police revealed that they had been called to the suspect’s home on several previous occasions regarding complaints related to her mental health. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to support the survivors and the families of those lost.
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