New details have emerged following the deadly shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School that left nine victims dead and more than 25 injured in one of Canada’s worst mass shootings in recent history.
As previously reported by AP News, seven people were killed in connection with the attack at the school, with two additional victims found at a nearby residence believed to be connected to the suspect. Authorities said a “female suspect” was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted injury, and the motive remains under investigation.
According to LifeSiteNews, multiple local sources have identified the suspect as Jesse Strang, described as a young male who identified as transgender. LifeSiteNews reported that initial descriptions referred to the shooter as a “female in a dress with brown hair,” while law enforcement has used the term “gun person” and has not publicly released the suspect’s name or pronouns.
LifeSiteNews further reported that Strang is believed to have killed two family members before going to the secondary school, which serves fewer than 200 students in Grades 7 through 12. The town of Tumbler Ridge had a population of approximately 2,399 in 2021.
The outlet also cited Juno News as reporting that Russell G. Strang, identified as the suspect’s uncle, confirmed Jesse Strang was responsible for the attack and identified as transgender. According to LifeSiteNews, a public YouTube account believed to belong to the suspect displayed a transgender flag and used “she/her” pronouns.
Canadian activist Chris Elston, known publicly as “Billboard Chris,” commented on the tragedy on social media. LifeSiteNews quoted Elston as writing, “How many people need to be killed before we stop this trans madness?” He also stated, according to the outlet, that the suspect “was a young man who needed serious help for his mental health. Instead, his delusion was affirmed, and the result is murdered innocent children.”
Law enforcement officials have not yet released a detailed statement confirming the suspect’s identity or motive. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, including the suspect’s connection to the victims.
British Columbia Premier David Eby called the shooting an “unimaginable tragedy,” while Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was devastated and expressed gratitude for first responders who acted quickly to protect students and staff, according to AP News.
Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka described the loss as “devastating” for the tight-knit community. Local clergy and counselors have been assisting families as they await further information and begin the difficult process of mourning.
As the investigation continues, officials have urged the public to rely on confirmed information from law enforcement and to avoid speculation about motive until the facts are fully established.
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