Premier David Eby has revealed that the police inquiry into the tragic Tumbler Ridge mass shooting is nearing completion. The update was shared during a recent meeting with Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka, nearly three months after the devastating incident where Jesse Van Rootselaar took the lives of eight individuals, including six schoolchildren, before taking her own life. Eby mentioned that the RCMP informed the Ministry of Public Safety about the advanced stage of the investigation, although no specific timeline was provided. He expressed hope for a prompt update from the authorities.
The premier conveyed this information to Krakowka prior to addressing the media at his office. Chief Coroner Dr. Jatinder Baidwan had previously announced an impending inquest into the shooting, with further details to be disclosed once the police inquiry concludes.
Krakowka elaborated on his efforts to secure necessary resources for the Tumbler Ridge community, emphasizing the importance of advocating for the town’s approximately 2,600 residents. He commended the provincial government’s ongoing support, particularly highlighting the presence of mental health professionals aiding residents in processing the trauma and sorrow within the small northeastern British Columbia enclave.
Residents of Tumbler Ridge continue to navigate their grief through various channels, with Krakowka acknowledging the prolonged healing process ahead. He emphasized the resilience of the local youth and their distinct perspective on coping with the aftermath of the tragedy.
In parallel, calls for a comprehensive public inquiry persist, notably from the Conservative Party of British Columbia. Peace River-South MLA Larry Neufeld reiterated the demand for a thorough investigation, joined by Opposition mental health and addictions critic Claire Rattee. Rattee underscored the broader scope a public inquiry would offer compared to an inquest, aiming to delve into systemic failures beyond the event itself.
While the coroner’s inquest is anticipated to provide valuable insights, Eby affirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging all available resources to address any lingering queries. The possibility of establishing a joint commission with federal authorities to delve into the shooting remains under consideration, as Krakowka highlighted the forthcoming decision on whether to pursue a public inquiry post-inquest.