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NWT Officials respond to Tumbler Ridge school shooting
'It is painful and deeply shocking to witness such violence in a country we cherish as safe, welcoming, and compassionate,' says YK Mayor Ben Hendriksen
Flags at the NWT Legislative Assembly will fly at half-mast out of respect for the victims of the mass shooting that happened yesterday in the small community of Tumbler Ridge, B.C.
The mass shooting that happened Tuesday in the community of Tumbler Ridge, B.C. has made international headlines. (Image: Screen capture)
Members of the Assembly offered a moment of silence for the victims of the shooting — as did the House of Commons today — that left nine dead and 27 injured in the small community in northeastern area of the province.
Also, Mayor Ben Hendriksen, on behalf of the City of Yellowknife Council stated:
“A mass shooting in a Canadian community is something that shakes us all. It is painful and deeply shocking to witness such violence in a country we cherish as safe, welcoming, and compassionate.
“Our thoughts are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones. No words can lessen the grief they are experiencing, but we stand with them in solidarity and in sorrow. We also extend our sincere wishes for a full and swift recovery to those who were injured.”
RCMP identified the shooting suspect as 18-year-old area resident Jesse Van Rootselaar, who was found dead inside the school with a self-inflicted injury.
One teacher and five students between 12 and 13 years old were found dead at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, police said.
Van Rootselaar’s mother and sibling were found dead at the family home, officers added.
Police say the suspect was “born as a biological male, who … approximately six years ago began to transition to female, and identified as female.”
The City of Yellowknife encourages residents who may be affected by this news to seek support through NWT Help Line 8-1-1 or territorial Mental Health Support Services.
