TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C., Canada — A 12-year-old girl has been identified by her family as one of the victims killed in the mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School earlier this week. Kylie May Smith was among nine people who lost their lives in the tragic attack, which has shaken the small community and drawn national attention.
Kylie’s family confirmed her death through a GoFundMe campaign organized by her aunt, Shanon Dycke. In the fundraiser, Dycke described the family’s overwhelming grief, writing that they were “completely devastated” and struggling to comprehend the scale of the tragedy. In a separate Facebook post, Dycke said the family’s world had “crumbled” following the loss of her “beautiful niece.”
Funds raised through the campaign will go toward helping Kylie’s mother, Desirae, her brother Ethan, and other family members with travel costs and expenses related to a memorial service. Dycke described Kylie as a “beautiful, kind, innocent soul,” adding that she did not survive the horrific violence that unfolded inside the school.
Authorities confirmed that the shooting claimed the lives of nine people, including the suspect, 18-year-old Jesse van Rootselaar. Police said Rootselaar was found inside the school with what appeared to be a self-inflicted injury. Among the victims were one teacher and five students, including three 12-year-old girls and two boys aged 12 and 13.
Investigators also confirmed that two additional victims — Rootselaar’s mother and his 11-year-old stepbrother — were found dead at the suspect’s home. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said the victims inside the school were located in the library and a stairwell. Officials continue to examine the sequence of events leading up to the attack.
As the investigation continues, grief counselors and support services have been made available to students, staff, and families. The community of Tumbler Ridge has come together to mourn the victims, leaving flowers and messages of remembrance. Authorities have not released a motive for the attack, and the RCMP said updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
