An 18-year-old has been named as the suspect in a deadly shooting in British Columbia, Canada, that killed eight people and injured many others. Police said the suspect, Jesse Van Rootselaar, was found dead at the scene after a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators are still trying to understand the reason behind the attack.

Sequence of events

The violent incident started at a house close to the school. There, Van Rootselaar’s 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old step-brother were found dead. After that, the suspect went to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where more violence followed. Six people were killed at the school and at least 25 others were injured.

Dwayne McDonald, deputy commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), said: “I can say that Jesse was born as a biological male who approximately six years ago began to transition to female.”

Victims and police response

Among those killed at the school were a 39-year-old female teacher, three 12-year-old girls, and two boys aged 12 and 13. Officials said they believe no other person was involved in the attack.

Police reacted very quickly after receiving reports of an active shooter at around 13:30 local time (20:30 GMT). “Officers arrived on the scene within two minutes of the call, heard active gunfire and entered the school,” McDonald said. Soon after entering, they found Van Rootselaar, who had already taken their own life.

Weapons and injuries

Police recovered two firearms from the scene. One was a long gun and the other was a modified handgun. However, authorities have not yet explained how each weapon was used during the attack. Some injured people were flown to hospitals for treatment, and several are still receiving medical care.

Background of the suspect

Investigators said Van Rootselaar had once held a valid gun licence, but it had expired. The suspect had also left school about four years earlier. Over the years, police had visited the family home several times, mostly due to mental health-related concerns.

Small community in shock

Tumbler Ridge is a small town with about 2,400 residents. Its secondary school is also small, with around 160 students. The attack has deeply affected the entire community.

Prime Minister Mark Carney called the incident horrific. He said students and teachers “bore witness to unheard of cruelty,” and added that some of the injured are still in hospital, “fighting for their lives.”

To the families in Tumbler Ridge who woke up today without someone they love, Canada mourns with you. pic.twitter.com/qQms9S2TKh

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) February 11, 2026

Mayor Darryl Krakowka spoke about how closely connected the town is. He said: “I will know every victim. I’ve been here 19 years, and we’re a small community. I don’t call them residents. I call them family.”