Credit: BC RCMP
A Canada-based pastor of African descent, Abel Mwansa, is mourning the loss of his 12-year-old son who was among victims of the February 10 shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in Tumbler Ridge.
The tragedy, which shook the small community in northeastern British Columbia, has drawn condolences from faith groups and diaspora communities across Canada and beyond.
Mwansa shared the devastating news in an emotional social media post describing the moment his family learned of the attack.
“Our son went to school this morning and it happened that someone came to school with a gun, went to my kid’s classroom, shot some kids and my son was killed too just like that,” he wrote.
He added that the loss has left an irreplaceable void in their family.
“Your mom, Shakainah, Jasail and I will greatly miss you Abel. J.”
Authorities have since confirmed details of the incident. In an official statement, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (BC RCMP) released the names of victims as the community grapples with the scale of the tragedy.
“The BC RCMP is releasing the official confirmation of the deceased victims of the February 10, 2026 Tumbler Ridge shooting,” the statement read, urging the public to keep focus on the victims, families, and those affected.
The victims from Tumbler Ridge Secondary School were identified as:
Abel Mwansa, 12
Ezekiel Schofield, 13
Kylie Smith, 12
Zoey Benoit, 12
Ticaria Lampert, 12
Shannda Aviugana-Durand, 39
Victims from a residence on Fellers Avenue were identified as:
Emmett Jacobs, 11
Jennifer Jacobs, 39
Police said the release of photos and personal tributes was made in consultation with families to honour the lives lost and support community healing.
“The BC RCMP offers sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to the entire Tumbler Ridge community that is grieving alongside them,” said Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, Commanding Officer of BC RCMP.
“This is a time of deep sorrow, and many are still processing the weight of this tragedy.”
He added that authorities will continue supporting families and respecting their wishes as the community begins a long recovery process.
Mwansa, known for pastoral outreach among immigrant and African faith communities in Canada, has received an outpouring of support from clergy and followers.