Police have identified the suspected shooter as Jesse Van Rootselaar, a former student of the local Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Authorities say she first shot and killed her mother and step-brother at a residence before opening fire inside the school. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have said the motive remains unclear and the investigation is ongoing.

In response to the attack, flags across Canada were lowered to half-staff, and Prime Minister Mark Carney joined other national political figures in Parliament for speeches and a moment of silence honouring the victims. British Columbia has also declared a day of mourning.

The victims confirmed by police include a female teacher, three female students and two male students, all aged between 12 and 13, along with two relatives of the suspect found at the residence. Families have begun to speak publicly about their loss. Lance Younge, father of 12-year-old Kylie Smith, described his daughter as a “beautiful soul” and urged parents to cherish their children every day.

Amid the shock, stories of bravery emerged. A young relative at the suspect’s home called 911, alerting a neighbour who then contacted authorities, police said, and a critical action that helped ensure a faster response.

Residents of Tumbler Ridge, a community of about 2,400 nestled in the Rockies, gathered at vigils, holding candles and laying flowers. Mayor Darryl Krakowka described the town as “one big family” grappling with profound grief.

The RCMP said dozens more were wounded, some critically, and that the scale of the tragedy has left the nation reeling as families and communities begin the long process of healing.