Teen Girl Launches Deadly School Shooting in Canada

Canadian authorities have identified an 18-year-old woman as the prime suspect in a devastating school shooting in western Canada. Officials suggest that the teenager, who reportedly struggled with mental health issues, had previously murdered her mother and stepbrother before carrying out the attack.

The horrific incident occurred on Tuesday in the remote Pacific coastal community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, home to approximately 2,400 residents. The suspect, identified as Jessie Van Routseller, died from a self-inflicted gunshot at the scene. Initial reports cited ten fatalities, but police later confirmed that a total of nine people, including the shooter, lost their lives.

In the aftermath, members of the House of Commons observed a moment of silence. Prime Minister Mark Carney described the tragedy as “shocking and deeply saddening for the nation.” Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka told reporters late Wednesday, “This community is like one large family. Listen to those in need, offer a shoulder if someone needs support, and embrace one another.”

Deputy Commissioner MacDonald revealed that Van Routseller first killed her 39-year-old mother and 11-year-old stepbrother at home. Born male, Van Routseller had publicly identified as female for the past six years. She then proceeded to the local school, where she shot a 39-year-old female teacher, three 12-year-old female students, and two male students aged 12 and 13.

Police recovered a long rifle and a modified handgun from the scene. Several others were injured, with at least two in critical condition. One victim, 12-year-old Maya, was shot in the head and neck and remains in life-threatening condition, according to her mother, Sia Edmonds.

Officers reportedly arrived at the school within two minutes of the first emergency call and immediately came under fire. Van Routseller, a former student at the school who had left four years prior, was found deceased at the scene from a self-inflicted wound.

MacDonald stated, “We believe the suspect acted alone. It is too early to determine a motive, and there is no evidence that specific individuals were targeted.” Leaders worldwide have expressed condolences, with Canada’s head of state, King Charles, stating he is “profoundly shocked and saddened.”

Several families have begun to identify their loved ones among the deceased. Abel Mouwansa shared that his 12-year-old son, Abel, who loved attending school, was killed. Another relative, Shannon Dyke, revealed that her 12-year-old niece, Kylie May Smith, was among the victims.

Canada’s gun laws are stricter than those in the United States, although firearms can be legally owned with a licence. Van Routseller’s licence had expired in 2024. Canadian minors aged 12–17 may obtain a firearms licence after completing a safety course and passing an examination.

This attack is now regarded as one of the deadliest in Canadian history. For comparison:

The tragedy has sent shockwaves across Canada and reignited debates over mental health support and gun control. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind Van Routseller’s actions and are offering counselling services to the affected community.