Two 12-year-old children who tragically lost their lives in a devastating school shooting have been identified and their names revealed. Kylie May Smith and Abel Mwansa Jr were among the eight individuals who fell victim to 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, Canada.

Van Rootselaar carried out one of the deadliest shootings in the nation’s history, resulting in six fatalities at a school and two more at the family residence, identified as the attacker’s mother and stepbrother.

During a press briefing, Royal Canadian Mounted Police Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald disclosed that the school victims included a 39-year-old female teacher, three 12-year-old female students, and two male students aged 12 and 13.

Authorities approached the school where gunfire was exchanged. Upon entering the premises, they swiftly located the deceased shooter, identified as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, who was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Two firearms, a long gun, and a modified handgun were recovered at the scene.

Tyler Curry, who had a connection with Abel through the Tumbler Ridge Soccer Association, shared sentiments about the young boy’s dedication and impact on the team. The community has been deeply affected by the tragic event, with Curry expressing the profound shock felt throughout the town.

Kylie, the other 12-year-old victim, was remembered by her family through a fundraising initiative aimed at supporting her loved ones during this difficult time. The funds raised will assist Kylie’s mother, brother, and other family members with travel expenses and creating a memorial in honor of her kind and innocent spirit.

Additionally, McDonald mentioned that the police had previously responded to the shooter’s residence for mental health-related concerns. The initial killings occurred at the family home, where a young family member sought help from a neighbor, leading to the discovery of the bodies of the suspect’s mother and 11-year-old stepbrother.

At the school, victims were found in various locations, including a stairwell and the library. It was clarified that the suspect had no known connections to the school victims and there is no indication of specific targeting. The community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic incident as they come to terms with the profound loss.