Tumbler Ridge, Canada — Justin Van Rootselaar is publicly distancing himself from his son, who was involved in a tragic school shooting that left eight dead, including six children. The estranged father emphasized his lack of involvement in Jesse Van Rootselaar’s life in a heartfelt statement, while addressing the pain and grief rippling through their community following the horrific event.
In his remarks, Justin Van Rootselaar described himself as an outsider to Jesse’s world, underscoring that he was not part of his life while growing up. He used the surname of Jesse’s mother, Jennifer Strang, who tragically lost her life in the shooting. “His mother declined my involvement from the beginning, and I was not given the opportunity to be a part of raising him,” he stated, expressing sorrow for the pain inflicted on innocent victims and their families.
The shooting unfolded on Tuesday when Jesse, 18, first killed his mother and his 11-year-old stepbrother at their home. He then traveled to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where he opened fire, targeting students and faculty. The incident resulted in the deaths of five young students and a teacher before Jesse ultimately took his own life.
Authorities confirmed that Jesse, who began transitioning from male to female about six years ago, struggled with mental health issues. Royal Canadian Mounted Police Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald revealed that police had visited the family home multiple times due to concerns regarding Jesse’s well-being and that he had been taken into custody for mental health assessments on more than one occasion.
Justin Van Rootselaar expressed his heartbreak for the victims’ families, calling for compassion in the wake of such an unimaginable tragedy. “This is a time for compassion, for holding one another close, and for supporting the families who are grieving such unimaginable loss,” he said.
In a final plea for understanding, he asked the community to respect the grief of his family as they process the aftermath of the events. “There will be no further statements,” he indicated, hoping to find some level of peace amidst the ongoing turmoil.
As the investigation continues, Tumbler Ridge remains shaken by the sudden loss of life and the questions surrounding Jesse’s actions. The community is left to heal, grappling with a tragedy that has left an indelible mark on their small town.