Tragedy in Tumbler Ridge: Remembering the Victims of a Horrific Shooting

Fri Feb 13 2026 06:19:40 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Eight lives were lost and many more were affected in a shocking shooting incident in Tumbler Ridge, Canada. This article pays tribute to the victims and their stories.

In a heartbreaking event in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, eight people lost their lives during two shootings at a school and a local residence. The victims included both adults and children, leaving a tight-knit community in mourning. This piece honors their memories and recounts the impact of this tragedy.

Tragedy in Tumbler Ridge: Remembering the Victims of a Horrific Shooting

Eight people were killed in two shootings - at a school and at a home - in the Canadian Rockies town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, this week. Another 27 people were injured, meaning many residents in the rural community of just 3,000 people will know someone who was a casualty of Tuesday's attacks.

Jennifer Jacobs and Emmett Jacobs

The mother of 18-year-old shooting suspect Jesse Van Rootselaar is among the victims. Jennifer Jacobs, 39, was one of two of Van Rootselaar's family members found dead at a local residence, British Columbia's Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said. Van Rootselaar was found dead on the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said. Court documents related to a family dispute from 2015 show that Jacobs and her children had spent years travelling around Canada.

Van Rootselaar's 11-year-old step-brother, Emmett Jacobs, was also killed at the residence, the RCMP confirmed.

Kylie Smith

Among the victims killed at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School was 12-year-old Kylie Smith. Her family described her as the light in their lives, a talented artist with dreams of attending art school in Toronto.

Abel Mwansa

Abel Mwansa, 12, is being remembered for his beautiful smile and love of science. He was also a dedicated soccer player, and his father expressed deep sorrow for his son's loss in a heartfelt social media tribute.

Zoey Benoit

12-year-old Zoey Benoit was also killed at the school. Her family described her as resilient, vibrant, and loving, highlighting the joy she brought to those around her.

Shannda Aviugana-Durand

Shannda Aviugana-Durand, 39, was another victim confirmed by the RCMP, who worked at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The BC General Employees Union expressed their profound loss and extended condolences.

Other Victims

Two students, Ticaria Lampert, 12, and Ezekiel Schofield, 13, were also confirmed dead. Additionally, 12-year-old Maya Gebala was critically injured. Her family fears for her life as she battles severe injuries in a Vancouver hospital.

This event has left the Tumbler Ridge community devastated, with numerous tributes pouring in for the victims as families mourn the loss of their loved ones.