Flags were flown at half mast on Tuesday at the Red Deer RCMP detachment in downtown Red Deer. (Image Credit: rdnewsNOW staff/Ian Gustafson)

By Ian Gustafson

Impacted by tragedy

Red Deer school divisions providing support for students following B.C. mass shooting

Feb 11, 2026 | 4:34 PM

On Tuesday, tragedy struck Canada when nine people were killed, and approximately 25 were injured during a mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.

An update from the RCMP on Wednesday unveiled the identity of the shooter as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, who was also one of the people found dead at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.

That day, five students and a teacher from the school were also found deceased, in addition to the suspect’s mother and stepbrother, who were found dead at their home.

As a result, Red Deer Public Schools and Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools have reaffirmed their efforts to provide support for students.

In an emailed statement from Red Deer Public Schools Associate Superintendent of Student Services, Chris Good, he said they have connected with all of their school administrators and counsellors to review the supports available for students, staff and families, who may be impacted by this heartbreaking tragedy.

Early February

Olds RCMP arrest man known by police after evading in stolen vehicle

5m ago

Vehicle reported stolen out of Stettler

Drumheller RCMP seeks assistance in identifying male who fled from police

18h ago

Impacted by tragedy

Red Deer school divisions providing support for students following B.C. mass shooting

18h ago

“Our staff are trained in trauma-informed best practices and are prepared to provide care, guidance, and support to those who need it,” Good said.

Meantime, in an emailed statement, Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools said they’re deeply saddened by the news in Tumbler Ridge.

“We pray for the community of Tumbler Ridge, the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School community, School District No. 59 (Peace River South), and everyone impacted by this tragedy,” as stated in the email.

Red Deer Catholic said their associate superintendent of student services has collaborated with the division’s psychologist and school administrators to support any student or family who is directly connected to these communities or impacted by the tragedy.

They explained that every school is equipped with a counsellor and an inclusive lead teacher, as well as administrators and staff who are vigilant and observant of any signs of distress amongst students or staff.

“We are experienced at mobilizing services in crises and have trusted resources for our counsellors from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network,” as explained by Red Deer Catholic in their statement. “Our superintendent is working with the Ministry of Education and Childcare and local superintendents to coordinate communication and to collaborate to share services should that be necessary.”

-With Files from The Canadian Press