National leaders to attend vigil in Tumbler Ridge following mass shooting

Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to join community members in Tumbler Ridge today for a public vigil honouring the nine people killed in a mass shooting earlier this week. The prime minister accepted an invitation from the town’s mayor and extended an invitation to other federal party leaders to stand in solidarity with the community.

Representatives for Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet, NDP interim leader Don Davies and Green Party Leader Elizabeth May have confirmed they will attend. The joint appearance follows statements delivered in the House of Commons on Wednesday, where leaders pledged unity and support for victims and their families.

Police say 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar fatally shot her mother and 11-year-old stepbrother at their home on Tuesday before going to a local school, where five students aged 12 and 13 and an education assistant were also killed. More than two dozen others were injured in the attack.

British Columbia Premier David Eby said one of the victims, 12-year-old Maya Gebala, remains in critical condition and is “clinging to life in hospital.” Health officials have not released further updates on the conditions of the injured.

The tragedy has shaken the northeastern B.C. community of roughly 2,500 residents. Provincial and federal officials have pledged assistance, including mental health supports and resources for affected families, as the town begins the process of mourning and recovery.