Tragic Loss of Young Best Friends in Tumbler Ridge School Shooting
In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken the small community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, two 12-year-old best friends were among the eight victims killed in a school shooting on February 10, 2026. Kylie Smith and Ticaria "Tiki" Lampert, described as inseparable companions who shared every aspect of their young lives, tragically died together during the violent rampage at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The shooter, identified as 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, had a documented history of mental health interactions with local police prior to the attack. According to authorities, Van Rootselaar first shot two individuals at his residence before proceeding to the secondary school, where he opened fire, resulting in six fatalities at the scene. In total, eight people lost their lives, two victims were critically injured and airlifted to hospital, and twenty-five others sustained minor injuries during the chaotic event. Van Rootselaar was later found deceased at the school from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Remembering Kylie and Tiki
Family friend Kenesha Mercredi, who was close to Tiki's family, emotionally recounted the bond between the two girls, stating they are now "besties forever in heaven." Mercredi shared that the friends were captured in a playful photograph just one day before the shooting, with Kylie jumping on Tiki's back, illustrating their joyful and carefree relationship. "They were best friends and did everything together from sleepovers, sharing classes together, sharing secrets and sharing their last day together," Mercredi explained.
Tiki Lampert was remembered by Mercredi as "a loving, courageous, humorous, one-of-a-kind kiddo" whose vibrant personality earned her the nickname "tiki torch, full of fire and beauty" from her mother, Sarah Lampert. Tiki leaves behind seven siblings and a mother who adored her children. Meanwhile, Kylie Smith was described by her aunt, Shanon Dycke, in a GoFundMe post as a "beautiful, kind, innocent soul," with the family expressing devastation upon receiving the "gut-wrenching news" of her death.
Community Response and Support
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Tumbler Ridge community has rallied to support the affected families. Mercredi has organized a GoFundMe campaign to assist Sarah Lampert, a single mother, with funeral expenses for Tiki, noting that while neighbors are helping care for her other children, financial aid is urgently needed. Similarly, efforts are underway to support Kylie's family as they navigate this profound loss.
This incident marks one of the deadliest school shootings in recent Canadian history, highlighting ongoing concerns about mental health and public safety. As investigations continue, residents of Tumbler Ridge and beyond are mourning the senseless loss of young lives, particularly the close friendship of Kylie and Tiki, whose memories will be cherished by those who knew them.
