PAC raises more than $700K for school shooting victims as fundraiser continues to climb

TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — Less than a week after a fundraising page was launched to support the victims of the Tumbler Ridge school shooting, it has raised more than $700,000 in donations. 

A GoFundMe page was launched by the Tumbler Ridge Parent Advisory Council (PAC) on February 11th in a collaborative effort with the mayor of Tumbler Ridge, Darryl Krakowka, and the District of Tumbler Ridge council.

The page has raised $702,474 as of February 17th, 12.28 p.m. 

Since its launch, the page has received huge single donations, including one amounting to $50,000. 

This comes after eight people were killed by 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, who also died, in Tumbler Ridge on February 10th in the afternoon. 

A Tumbler Ridge RCMP press release on February 12th confirmed the identities of the victims. 

Multiple GoFundMe pages have been launched for the families of the victims. 

PAC had previously said the funds raised through the page will help families directly affected by this event, such as by covering unexpected expenses, supporting daily needs and helping with ongoing recovery efforts. 

Nicole Noksana, chair of the Tumbler Ridge PAC, in a written statement told Energeticcity.ca: “[The funds] are being directed immediately to support the urgent financial needs of the victims’ families.

“Immediate support may include mortgage or rent payments, fuel and travel expenses, and costs associated with bringing loved ones in to be with family members, where necessary.” 

PAC will also be allocating funds to assist with funeral and burial arrangements. 

“As we continue to understand each family’s needs, this will also include helping to support transportation to locations where families would like final resting places to be,” Noksana said, adding that PAC will be working closely with each family to address their long-term needs. 

She said: “Our primary goal has been to provide a secure, trusted place for our community to contribute collectively in support of these devastated families, ensuring they do not have to carry financial burdens during this incredibly difficult time.” 

PAC is thanking the community and the country for the generosity and support. 

“We also extend our gratitude to Bob Zimmer, [Peace River, Prince George and Northern Rockies] member of parliament, and the North and South Peace MLAs for their assistance in helping families navigate provincial and federal systems as needed during this time,” she said. 

The GoFundMe total does not include donations made directly at Lake View Credit Union, which is also collecting for the cause at its branches or via e-transfer to trstrong@lvcu.ca.

To view or donate to the fundraiser, click here.