The RCMP says 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar killed her mother, Jennifer Jacobs (39), and 11-year-old stepbrother Emmett Jacobs at home, then drove to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and opened fire. Six more people were killed at the school, including five students and a 39-year-old teacher; the suspect died by suicide at the scene. In total, nine people were killed and 25 injured. Authorities have not released a motive and the community is mourning.
Tumbler Ridge Rampage: Suspect Killed Mother and Stepbrother Before Deadly School Shooting
Emmett Jacobs; Jennifer JacobsRoyal Canadian Mounted Police
Canadian authorities say an 18-year-old suspect identified as Jesse Van Rootselaar fatally shot two family members at a home before driving to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and opening fire in a multistage attack that left nine people dead and 25 injured in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia.
What Happened
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) investigators have said the suspect first shot and killed her 39-year-old mother, Jennifer Jacobs, and her 11-year-old stepbrother, Emmett Jacobs, at a residence. The suspect then traveled to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where six more people — including five students and a 39-year-old educator — were killed. Responding officers say the suspect fatally shot herself at the school before police could reach her.
Emmett JacobsRoyal Canadian Mounted Police
Victims and Community Impact
Among those killed at the school were four 12-year-old students and one 13-year-old student. In total, nine people lost their lives and 25 others were wounded. The killings have shaken the small community and prompted an outpouring of grief across Canada and beyond.
"The BC RCMP offers sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to the entire Tumbler Ridge community that is grieving alongside them," Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald said in a statement. "This is a time of deep sorrow… We will continue to support the families, respect their wishes, and walk with the community as it begins the long journey toward healing."
Reaction and Investigation
Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka said he "broke down" when he first heard the news and noted that, after 18 years living in the town, he likely knew many of the victims. International figures and local leaders expressed shock, and memorials have formed as families begin to grieve.
Jennifer JacobsRoyal Canadian Mounted Police
Officials have not released a motive. Investigators cautioned that understanding why the attack occurred may be difficult, and the RCMP continues to piece together the timeline and evidence while supporting affected families and the community.
Note: Reporting is ongoing and authorities continue to release official details as they are confirmed.
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