Eight people were killed in one of the deadliest school shootings in Canadian history.
That includes three girls and two boys between the ages of 13 and 17 and one female teacher at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in B.C.
RCMP Deputy commissioner Dwayne McDonald identified the shooter as 18-year-old woman Jesse Van Rootselaar of Tumbler Ridge.
“Two firearms, a long gun and modified handgun were recovered by responding officers. Determining the origin of these firearms and what role they played in the shootings remain a significant part of the ongoing and active investigation,” said the deputy commissioner.
The shooter also killed her mother and step-brother at a separate residence.
RCMP responded to the school within two minutes, and were met with gunfire from inside the school.
The suspect is believed to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Over 100 students and faculty were evacuated to a nearby recreation centre once RCMP determined it was safe.
Twenty-five people were injured, two were airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The initial death toll was 10, RCMP believed one of those airlifted had died, but she is in serious condition.
“This is a deeply distressing incident, where nine individuals have essentially lost their lives. Our thoughts are with the first responders, the families and everyone in the greater Tumbler Ridge community.”
Deputy commissioner McDonald says it’s believed the suspect acted alone.
Condolences from world leaders, Parliament Hill
Prime Minister Mark Carney and other party leaders spoke in the House of Commons about the tragedy, and offered their condolences.
“Parents, grandparents, sisters and brothers woke up today in Tumbler Ridge without someone they love,” said Carney.
“The nation mourns with you, Canada stands by you.”
The PM ordered all flags at government buildings will be flown at half-mast for the next seven days.
Comments