MLAs continue calls for full public inquiry into Tumbler Ridge tragedy

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The MLA for Peace River South has reaffirmed his call for a full public inquiry into the events of the February 10th mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge. 

MLA Larry Neufeld called for the inquiry on February 26th, later pressing the B.C. premier David Eby on the matter during question period in the Legislative Assembly of B.C. 

On February 10th, Jesse Van Rootselaar, who identified as female, shot and killed eight individuals at a home in Tumbler Ridge and the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School before killing herself. 

In answer to Neufeld, Eby confirmed the province was committed to either a coroner’s inquest or a public inquiry to “ensure that all questions are answered” about the tragedy.

On March 3rd, the BC Coroners Service announced it will conduct an inquest into the incident to assess “systemic and procedural issues.” 

In a March 3rd press release by the Conservative Party of B.C., Skeena MLA Claire Rattée and Neufeld reaffirmed the call for a full public inquiry. 

“Tumbler Ridge deserves to know the truth,” Neufeld said.

“Families deserve answers, systems must be held accountable and failures cannot be repeated.”

The MLAs stated the public inquiry could examine “system performance across government and the private sector,” including AI services when accounts are flagged.

“We welcome the announcement of a coroner’s inquest, but it does not prevent the need for a public inquiry,” Rattée stated. 

“A public inquiry can establish facts, identify failures and deliver recommendations that will affect change.”