Canada School Shooting: Online Footprint of Suspect Reveals Guns, Hunting, and Mental Health Struggles

Authorities in Canada are investigating the tragic mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, where 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar killed nine people, including seven at a local secondary school, before taking her own life. The attack has sparked national mourning and renewed discussions on gun access, mental health, and online behavior.

Van Rootselaar, who was transgender and had transitioned about six years ago, reportedly killed her mother and 11-year-old stepbrother at home before opening fire at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, leaving five students and a teacher dead and injuring several others. Authorities are still probing a motive.

Suspect’s Online Activity Highlights Guns and Hunting

Social media posts reviewed by investigators indicate Van Rootselaar was enthusiastic about firearms and hunting. Her mother, Jennifer Strang, shared a 2024 Facebook post featuring a cabinet with six hunting rifles, suggesting target practice. Police confirmed Strang held a firearms license, but none of the guns were registered to her.

Van Rootselaar also ran a YouTube channel posting videos about guns, hunting, and self-reliance. Some content has since been removed, but archived records show titles linked to firearms use. Reddit activity under the same username included a video from a 2023 firing range visit.

Roblox, a popular gaming platform, reported removing an account linked to Van Rootselaar after reports she created a game simulating a mass shooting. The game had minimal engagement. A spokesperson emphasized full cooperation with law enforcement.

Gun Access and Investigation

Canada has stricter gun regulations than the United States, but it remains legal to own certain firearms with a valid license. Minors aged 12–17 may use guns for hunting or target practice with a Minor’s License.

Police recovered two firearms at the scene—a long gun and a modified rifle—neither registered to Van Rootselaar, whose license expired in 2024. Additional firearms, including a shotgun, were seized from her home for analysis.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) continue to examine the online footprint and firearms acquisition to understand how the tragedy unfolded and to prevent similar future incidents.