TUMBler Ridge, Canada — Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to join a community in mourning as details emerge regarding the six children and their assistant teacher tragically killed by gunfire at a high school in this small mining town. The incident marks a devastating chapter for a region that recently faced one of Canada’s most severe mass shootings in years.
Carney has called for leaders from all political parties to accompany him to a vigil scheduled for Friday, honoring the victims of this horrific act. The emotional gathering will serve as a time for reflection and solidarity within this tight-knit community.
Among those lost was 12-year-old Kylie Smith, who her family remembered as a source of light in their lives. Described as an enthusiastic student with aspirations of attending art school in Toronto, Kylie’s absence leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her loved ones. “She loved her family, friends, and school,” they said. “Our family will never be the same without you.”
Kylie’s father, Lance Younge, recounted the emotional turmoil of waiting to learn her fate following the tragedy. As he sought answers at a local recreation center where families gathered, he was met with horrific news through another student who attempted to save Kylie.
The family of another victim, 12-year-old Zoey Benoit, expressed their profound grief, describing her as “resilient” and “caring.” Her supportive spirit and intelligence will be greatly missed by those who knew her.
Grandparents of 13-year-old Ezekiel Schofield shared their heartbreak, reflecting on how unreal the situation feels. “The tears just keep flowing,” wrote Peter Schofield in a heartfelt social media post, capturing the sorrow felt throughout the community.
Abel Mwansa Jr., also 12, was remembered by his father, who expressed anguish over seeing his son’s lifeless body. “I saw a bright future, a leader, an engineer, a scientist in you,” he posted, further stressing the impact of the loss on their family.
The tragedy extended beyond the students. Shannda Aviugana-Durand, a 39-year-old assistant teacher, was also killed during the incident. In addition to the victims, the community mourns the loss of the shooter’s family, with the suspect, Jesse Van Rootselaar, found deceased at the school.
Authorities confirmed that police had been called multiple times to the suspect’s residence over the years due to concerning mental health issues. Royal Canadian Mounted Police Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald detailed earlier interactions with the family, stating that the suspect had been apprehended for evaluations under the mental health act, and noted prior concerns involving firearms.
Local leaders like Trent Ernst, publisher of Tumbler RidgeLines, emphasized the frustration within the community regarding the lack of adequate mental health resources. The scarcity of support services, particularly as mental health needs have become increasingly evident, has left many residents feeling vulnerable.
At a recent gathering, mourners braved the frigid temperatures to honor the victims, with Mayor Darryl Krakowka reminding them, “It’s OK to cry.” He reinforced the importance of community support, urging residents to continually stand by the families affected by this heartbreaking event.
As Tumbler Ridge grapples with its collective grief, the community is left to reflect on these tragic losses while advocating for better support systems to prevent such a catastrophe from occurring again in the future.