A 12-year-old girl, Maya Gebala, is fighting for her life in critical condition after being shot twice while heroically attempting to shield her classmates during a devastating school shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The incident has left the community in mourning, with ten people confirmed dead, prompting Prime Minister Mark Carney to express profound grief and acknowledge the difficult conversations ahead regarding school safety and gun control.
Details of the Shooting and Heroic Actions
Maya Gebala was airlifted to British Columbia’s Children’s Hospital after sustaining gunshot wounds above her left eye and in her neck. Medical professionals remain uncertain about her survival, as she continues to receive intensive care. Her courageous act occurred during the attack by 18-year-old shooter Jesse Van Rootselaar, who opened fire at the school, resulting in a tragic loss of life.
Victims and Investigation
The shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, killed three 12-year-old female students, two male students aged 12 and 13, a 39-year-old educator, a 39-year-old mother, and an 11-year-old stepbrother. Police are actively investigating the motive behind the attack, noting that Van Rootselaar had a documented history of mental health concerns. Additionally, her firearms were not registered, and her gun license had expired in 2024, raising serious questions about firearm regulations and enforcement.
Community Response and Support
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched by a relative to support Maya's recovery and her mother, Cia, who shared an emotional note from the hospital describing the family's anguish. The community has rallied around the victims, with many expressing shock and sorrow over the senseless violence that has shattered the peace of Tumbler Ridge.
Broader Implications and Reactions
Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the nation, mourning the ten lives lost and emphasizing the need for difficult conversations about preventing such incidents in the future. The shooting has reignited debates on mental health support, school security measures, and the effectiveness of current gun laws in Canada. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to the massacre, while survivors and families grapple with the aftermath of this horrific event.
