The father of the Tumbler Ridge shooter has released a public statement after the deadly attack that shook the small B.C. community of Tumbler Ridge.
Justin VanRootselaar said the tragedy has brought deep pain to the town and offered condolences to the victims’ families. He explained that he was estranged from his son and was not involved in raising him, but said he still feels great sorrow for the harm caused. He asked the public to respect his family’s privacy and said there will be no further statements.
Meanwhile, BC RCMP confirmed police had previously visited the teen’s home over mental health concerns. Commanding officer Dwayne McDonald said firearms were seized from the home years ago but were later returned to their legal owner. It remains unclear who owned the guns.
Criminal lawyer Jerry Steele noted that Canada’s Red Flag law allows people to ask a judge to temporarily remove firearms from someone seen as a risk. According to Global News, the 18-year-old suspect had left school several years ago, and weapons were found at the scene after the Feb. 10 shooting. Police have not confirmed whether those guns were the same ones previously seized.
