After community members in Tumbler Ridge found firearms that had been destroyed by the RCMP, rumours spread suggesting they were connected to the recent tragedy in February.
However, Tumbler Ridge RCMP are informing residents that firearms are disposed of as part of routine operations, and none of the firearms seized during investigations that took place between 2016 and 2024, and were destroyed, were in any way connected to the recent shooting.
Police confirmed that 20 firearms were seized over eight years of investigations, and after being rendered inoperable, went through a routine destruction process, making them no longer legally classified as firearms.
“All firearms related to the February tragedy are currently being held by the North District Major Crime Unit as part of their ongoing investigation,” said Sgt. Ian Rissanen, interim detachment commander for Tumbler Ridge RCMP. “None of the firearms destroyed as part of this routine process are connected to that event.”
On Feb. 10, eight people, ranging in age from 11 to 39 years old, were killed in two locations in the small northeastern B.C. community. The suspected shooter, 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, died of a “self-inflicted injury” and was found inside the school. She lived in the community.
In addition, 27 others are injured. Two were airlifted to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries, while the other 25 were assessed and triaged at the local medical centre for non-life-threatening injuries.
The RCMP said that it understands the concern these rumours can cause and asks residents to contact the detachment directly with questions.
Members of the public can speak with the Interim Detachment Commander by calling 250‑242‑5252.