BC NEWS

Tuesday, October 6, 2016

Two hundred and thirty-eight days ago, the people of Tumbler Ridge, BC experienced a tragedy that forever changed the lives of families, friends, students, educators, first responders and the entire community.

Eight victims lost their lives, and countless others continue to carry the impact of that day.

Our initial police response was within minutes by officers from the Tumbler Ridge RCMP. 

In the hours and days that followed, over 100 RCMP personnel and volunteers from across British Columbia came together to support those affected, secure the community and begin the complex work of understanding what occurred.

Within days of the incident, we contacted the US Department of Homeland Security after receiving information from one of the online platforms used by the shooter. The FBI investigation was launched soon afterwards. 

Today’s arrest and charge announcement by the FBI reflects the months of investigative effort, cooperation and coordination between our two agencies.   

I would like to acknowledge and publicly thank the Major Crime investigators that have worked tirelessly on this file and continue to advance a very complex investigation. Their work has been driven by a commitment to uncovering the facts and providing answers to the community. They have been supported throughout by the BC Prosecution Service and the Department of Justice, whose guidance and assistance have been invaluable. 

I want to recognize the victim services workers who continue to support families and survivors. They have provided strength, guidance and compassion during some of the most difficult moments imaginable. On behalf of the RCMP, I want to thank them for their extraordinary commitment to this community and for the emotional strength they continue to bring to this difficult work.

Our focus remains on supporting the ongoing criminal proceedings in Washington State and continuing our close cooperation with the FBI. Our RCMP criminal investigation remains ongoing and the possibility of further charges being pursued in Canada remains under active consideration.

To the families of the victims, the survivors, and the community of Tumbler Ridge: our commitment to seeking answers has not wavered. We recognize that the passage of time has not diminished the impact of this tragedy, and we remain committed to supporting you throughout this process. We will continue working alongside victim services and partner agencies to ensure supports remain available while the investigation and related court proceedings continue.

Thank you.