In the small town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, residents are reeling after a mass shooting left nine people dead, including six children. 'We've been insulated,' said local pastor Tracy Krauss, expressing how the sense of security has been shattered.
On Thursday, police released the identities of the victims, including 12-year-old Zoey Benoit—described as 'the strongest little girl you could meet'—and Kylie Smith, a bright student with dreams of art school.
This devastating incident has rocked the tight-knit community of around 2,400, which is now mourning together. Memorials have popped up near the school, with flowers and messages pouring in from those who want to honor the victims.
The shooter, 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the school, which was emptied as students sheltered in place. Many questions remain surrounding the motive behind this tragic event.
Support from across Canada has been overwhelming, and Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to visit the town to show solidarity. As the community grapples with this dark cloud hanging over Tumbler Ridge, local leaders emphasize the need for healing and reflection on mental health support, which has become a pertinent issue in light of this tragedy.
On Thursday, police released the identities of the victims, including 12-year-old Zoey Benoit—described as 'the strongest little girl you could meet'—and Kylie Smith, a bright student with dreams of art school.
This devastating incident has rocked the tight-knit community of around 2,400, which is now mourning together. Memorials have popped up near the school, with flowers and messages pouring in from those who want to honor the victims.
The shooter, 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the school, which was emptied as students sheltered in place. Many questions remain surrounding the motive behind this tragic event.
Support from across Canada has been overwhelming, and Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to visit the town to show solidarity. As the community grapples with this dark cloud hanging over Tumbler Ridge, local leaders emphasize the need for healing and reflection on mental health support, which has become a pertinent issue in light of this tragedy.
