The British Columbia Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have officially confirmed the identities of the victims killed in the February 10, 2026 mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, as the small northern community continues to mourn one of the deadliest school attacks in Canada in decades.
In a statement released after consultation with families, the BC RCMP said the names were made public to honor the lives lost and to support transparency as the investigation continues.
Officials stressed that the focus remains on the victims, their loved ones, and the broader Tumbler Ridge community.
Among the victims was 12-year-old Kylie May Smith. Her family described her as a bright and compassionate young girl whose life was taken far too soon.
Kylie’s aunt, Shanon Dycke, publicly shared that the family is devastated and struggling to process the tragedy.
Funds raised in her memory are intended to assist her mother, Desirae Smith, her brother, Ethan Smith, and other relatives with funeral expenses and travel costs.
Authorities confirmed that 18-year-old Jesse van Rootselaar was identified as the gunman. According to RCMP Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, van Rootselaar was found deceased inside the school with what investigators believe was a self-inflicted injury.
Police also confirmed that two additional victims were located at a residence connected to the suspect.
Those victims were identified as the suspect’s mother and his 11-year-old stepbrother. Their names have not been publicly released at the request of family members.Inside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, investigators reported that one teacher and several students were killed.
Officials stated that some victims were found in the school library, while another was located in a stairwell. The total number of fatalities stands at nine victims, in addition to the suspect.
The RCMP have not publicly disclosed a confirmed motive and say the investigation remains active.
Law enforcement officials continue to review digital evidence, witness statements, and forensic findings as part of a comprehensive inquiry.
Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald extended condolences on behalf of the BC RCMP, saying the loss has deeply affected families, first responders, and the entire Tumbler Ridge community.
Counseling services and crisis response teams remain available to students and residents as the town begins the long process of recovery.
As memorials grow outside Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, residents have gathered in vigils to honor Kylie May Smith and the other victims.
The RCMP reiterated that additional updates will be provided as new information becomes available, while emphasizing respect for the families’ privacy during this period of profound grief.
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