Canadian Leaders Unite in Grief at Vigil for Tumbler Ridge School Shooting
In a poignant display of solidarity, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre joined hands at a vigil in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, honoring the victims of a devastating mass shooting. The event, held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, brought together a community in mourning after a tragic incident that claimed eight lives, including five children and an educator.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The shooting was carried out by 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, who began her rampage at home, killing her mother and stepbrother. She then proceeded to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where she opened fire, resulting in the deaths of five children and an assistant teacher before taking her own life. Authorities have identified the school victims as 12-year-olds Kylie Smith, Abel Mwansa, Zoey Benoit, and Ticaria Lampert, along with 13-year-old Ezekiel Schofield and 39-year-old assistant teacher Shannda Aviugana-Durand.
In addition to the fatalities, two individuals sustained bullet wounds and are currently hospitalised in Vancouver. They have been named as 12-year-old Maya Gebala and 19-year-old Paige Hoekstra. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported that the shooter was 'hunting' and engaging anyone in her path, with officers encountering gunfire upon entering the school. Four guns were seized from both the home and the school premises.
Political Unity in a Time of Tragedy
At the vigil, Prime Minister Carney took a moment to name each of the deceased, acknowledging their lives and the profound loss felt by the community. In a rare and moving gesture, he also extended his condolences to the shooter's family, recognising their grief amidst the tragedy. The image of Carney and Poilievre holding hands has been widely shared, symbolising a bipartisan commitment to healing and support in the face of such violence.
This incident has sparked renewed discussions on gun control and mental health resources in Canada, with leaders from across the political spectrum calling for action to prevent future tragedies. The vigil served as a somber reminder of the impact of mass shootings on small communities and the importance of unity in times of crisis.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the victims' families and the wounded, with local authorities and national leaders pledging ongoing assistance. The event in Tumbler Ridge highlights how acts of violence can bring people together, transcending political divides to foster collective mourning and resilience.
