Tumbler Ridge Fundraiser Launched

Local PAC aids victims' families

Canadians are reeling in the wake of yesterday's school shooting in Tumbler Ridge, a small town in northeastern British Columbia. RCMP report eight people were killed, plus the suspected shooter, and more than 25 injured.

Earlier today, police identified the victims at the school as a 39-year old teacher, and five children who were aged 12 or 13. The mother and step-brother of the suspect, 18-year-old Jesse van Rootselaar, were found dead in the family home.

In the wake of this tragedy, members of the Tumbler Ridge Parent Advisor Council (PAC) have set up a GoFundMe to raise money to help affected families.

In a statement, members of the committee said they were working with the local Mayor and Council to establish a GoFundMe account. Funds will be used "to cover unexpected expenses, supporting daily needs, help with any ongoing recovery efforts, pay for funeral costs, pay for mental health supports and more."

The District of Tumbler Ridge has a total population of just under 2,500 people, and Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where most of the tragedy unfolded, has a student body of 160 children in grades seven to twelve.

Both schools in the community have been closed for the rest of the week.

In a joint statement from the provincial legislature, leaders of the three official parties announced that tomorrow's Throne Speech will be cancelled, and a day of mourning will be declared across the province in memory of the victims.

Speaking to The Watershed from his office in Ottawa today, local Member of Parliament Patrick Weiler said that it has been "a really awful day for our province and our entire country," and that he was "sending love and compassion to the people of Tumbler Ridge."

Donations to the PAC fundraiser can be made HERE.

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