SD 27 offers condolences to Tumbler Ridge, mental health support to staff and students

SD 27 offers condolences to Tumbler Ridge, mental health support to staff and students

Published 10:10 am Wednesday, February 11, 2026

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect the updated casualties in the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School shooting.

Flags will be flown at half mast throughout School District 27 in memory of the lives lost in the mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.

On Tuesday, Feb. 10, an individual, who has been identified by the RCMP as an 18-year-old female named Jesse Van Rootselaar, entered the high school in Tumbler Ridge and killed six with a firearm before taking their own life. Two other victims were found at a Tumbler Ridge residence, and several others are in the hospital.

SD 27 Superintendent Cheryl Lenardon said that the hearts of SD 27’s staff and students go out to the families of the victims, as well as the entire community of Tumbler Ridge. She stated they stand with their colleagues in education, first responders and all those affected by the tragedy.

“The loss of life and impact on young people, educators, and families is profound. We recognize that such news deeply affects communities across British Columbia, including our own,” Lenardon said. “During this difficult time, school districts in the Northern Chapter of the BCSSA and around the province will be coordinating efforts to provide assistance to Peace River South (School District 59) as they identify what will be helpful. In the meantime, we encourage compassion, connection, and support for one another as we collectively process the weight of this tragedy.”

Locally, Lenardon said SD 27 is committed to ensuring their own students and staff feel safe, supported and connected. To that end, she said counselling services and critical incident support services will be made available to anyone within her district struggling in the wake of this event.

In a message sent to SD 27 parents, Lenardon noted it is normal for children and adults to experience a range of emotions, including sadness, fear, confusion and anxiety following an incident like this. She noted these events can also trigger those who have experienced similar trauma or loss in the past.

“Support will be available at all of our schools (Wednesday) for any student who may need someone to talk to. Our counsellors and staff will be prepared to provide a safe, caring space for students to express their feelings, ask questions, or simply take a moment if they are struggling,” Lenardon said.

At home, Lenardon said parents can help their children process this news by taking a few important steps. This includes limiting exposure to news stories and social media posts about the shooting, acknowledging the feelings of their children, listening to their children, providing facts, encouraging empathy and compassion and maintaining a routine.

While the investigation into the shooting is ongoing and details are still emerging, Lenardon said what is clear is the need for continued vigilance, compassion and collective care in supporting SD 27’s school communities. She added that she encourages family and staff to reach out to their local principals if they need assistance.

“On behalf of the Cariboo‑Chilcotin School District, we extend our deepest condolences and unwavering support to the community of Tumbler Ridge,” Lenardon said. “We stand with you in sorrow, solidarity, and hope for healing in the days ahead.”

Anyone who needs access to mental healthcare at this time can do so virtually through the Foundry BC App or in person by contacting the local Canadian Mental Health Association. In a release put out by Interior Health on Wednesday morning, they noted several local help and crisis lines people can reach out to.

These include the Interior Crisis Line Network at 1-888-353-2273, the Suicide Crisis Helpline at 988, the KUU-US (Indigenous) Crisis Line at 1-800-588-8717, the Métis Crisis Line at 1-833-638-4722 and the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868.