Tragedy Strikes Tumbler Ridge: A Community in Mourning

Fri Feb 13 2026 05:19:30 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Tumbler Ridge, Canada, is reeling from a tragic shooting incident that left eight dead and 27 injured. The victims included family members and students, highlighting a devastating impact on this small community.

The small town of Tumbler Ridge was rocked by two shootings, resulting in eight fatalities and numerous injuries. Among the victims are family members of the shooter and several local students, sparking grief and sorrow throughout the community. Details about the victims and the aftermath of the incident are unfolding, with a focus on what this means for the tight-knit community.

Tragedy Strikes Tumbler Ridge: A Community in Mourning

The tiny Canadian Rockies town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, is grappling with the aftermath of a devastating shooting. This week, two separate incidents led to the tragic deaths of eight individuals, while 27 others were left injured. The local community, consisting of merely 3,000 residents, is deeply affected, as many know someone connected to the violence.

Details of the Shooting

Eyewitness accounts recount chaos and horror as the shootings unfolded at a local school and at a home in Tumbler Ridge. The grief is palpable throughout the community as children, parents, and teachers face the reality of such violence in their previously peaceful surroundings.

The Victims

Among the victims is Jennifer Jacobs, 39, the mother of the suspected shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, who was reportedly found dead from a self-inflicted injury at the scene. Her 11-year-old son, Emmett Jacobs, was also a victim, further underscoring the tragedy that befell one family.

Other young victims include 12-year-old Kylie Smith, who was remembered as a shining light in her family and an aspiring artist. Reports indicate she loved school and was a vibrant presence in her community. Another casualty, 12-year-old Abel Mwansa, was praised for his joyful spirit and passion for science and soccer.

Both Zoe Benoit and Ticia Lampert, aged 12, also lost their lives at the school. Zoe was hailed as a caring, vibrant girl with a contagious laugh, while Ticia is remembered fondly by classmates and teachers alike.

The Community's Response

As news of the shootings broke, heartfelt memorials and vigils began cropping up around Tumbler Ridge. Community members are coming together to share stories, offer support, and honor the lives lost. This tragedy will long be a stark reminder of the fragility of life.

As investigators continue to piece together the events leading to the shootings, many in Tumbler Ridge reflect on the communal bonds that have helped them weather this crisis. The journey toward healing will be challenging, but with unity and compassion, the resilient town will strive to move forward.