RCMP have identified the suspect in the mass shooting that left nine people dead and 27 injured in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., on Tuesday as 18-year-old local resident Jesse VanRootselaar. Police corrected the death toll previously reported, confirming that nine people died, not 10. Officers had initially believed a female victim with significant injuries had died, but later confirmed she is still alive and was airlifted to hospital in serious condition.

Early reports out of Canada named the suspect asJesse Strang. The RCMP later confirmed that the 18-year-old female goes by the name Jesse Van Rootselaar.

Among those killed at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School were a 39-year-old female educator, three 12-year-old girls, and two boys aged 12 and 13. One student was found in a stairwell and the others in the school library. At a residence connected to the suspect, a 39-year-old woman and an 11-year-old boy, believed to be the suspect’s mother and step-brother, were also found dead.

Police said the deaths at the home occurred first, before the suspect went to the high school. Officers did not arrive at the VanRootselaar home until about 2:45 PM. MST, after a young female relative went to a neighbour’s house and the neighbour called police.

Two firearms, a long gun and a modified handgun, were recovered by responding officers. RCMP said the role they played will be a significant part of the investigation.

McDonald said VanRootselaar identified as female but was assigned male at birth and began transitioning about six years ago. She was not currently attending Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and had dropped out about four years ago.

Police had previously responded to VanRootselaar’s home for mental health-related calls over several years, some of which involved weapons. Firearms had been seized from the home in the past, but the lawful owner petitioned to have them returned, and they were.

McDonald said police have not found any note from VanRootselaar but added that it is possible one was written.

Leaders around the world, including King Charles, have expressed solidarity with Canadians and the B.C. community following the tragedy.

Naman is a copy editor at Times Now, with over three years experience in covering US News, politics, global affairs, sports, and other domains. Apart...View More

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