In the aftermath of the tragic mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, the father of the shooter, Justin VanRootselaar, released a heartfelt statement addressing the overwhelming sorrow felt by the community. He emphasized the deep personal impact of the tragedy, highlighting the close-knit nature of Tumbler Ridge where residents know each other by name, and thus the loss resonates more profoundly. VanRootselaar extended his condolences to the families of the victims, acknowledging the immense grief they must be experiencing while recognizing his own pain as the father of the perpetrator.

VanRootselaar’s statement reflects the complicated emotions surrounding such senseless violence, as he expresses solidarity with the victims' families while grappling with his own sorrow. He conveyed that there are no adequate words to express the ache felt throughout the community, a reflection of shared trauma in small towns where collective mourning is more tangible. His acknowledgment of the ‘unforgivable act of violence’ indicates a broader conversation about gun violence and the responsibility of those affected by a crime, even when they are not the perpetrators.

This incident has spotlighted not only the immediate tragedy but also the long-lasting implications for community cohesion and healing. As the community grapples with the aftermath, this statement by VanRootselaar serves as an important reminder of the human cost of violence and the necessity for dialogues about mental health, prevention, and support for all affected.