The Tumbler Ridge community in British Columbia continues to grapple with the devastating aftermath of the February 10, 2026, school shooting that claimed multiple lives and left survivors and families facing profound grief. More than seven months later, the investigation has taken a significant new turn with the arrest of a Washington state man accused of helping the attacker prepare for the violence.
On October 6, U.S. authorities announced the arrest of 30-year-old James Cody Bryant of Bellingham, Washington. Prosecutors charged him with conspiracy to murder persons in a foreign country, alleging that he maintained frequent online contact with Jesse Van Rootselaar, the 18-year-old former student who carried out the Tumbler Ridge attack.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Bryant allegedly provided advice, money and technical assistance during the six months before the shooting. Investigators also allege that he agreed to help livestream the attack. Authorities say the communications occurred online and that Bryant was aware of the developing plan but did not alert law enforcement. These allegations remain subject to the court process.
The February 10 attack began when RCMP received a report of an active shooter at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School at approximately 1:20 p.m. Officers responding to the school encountered active gunfire. Police later located the suspected shooter deceased from what appeared to be a self-inflicted injury.
Authorities also discovered victims at a nearby residence connected to the suspect. RCMP confirmed eight victims and the suspect died during the broader incident, while others were injured. The school attack itself caused deaths among students and school staff and left surviving victims hospitalized.
The RCMP later publicly identified the young victims, including 12-year-old Abel Mwansa, 13-year-old Ezekiel Schofield and 12-year-old Kylie Smith. Officials emphasized that attention should remain on the victims, their families and everyone affected by the tragedy.
The investigation has remained active. In July, Tumbler Ridge RCMP said investigators were continuing to analyze digital and physical evidence and working with specialized units and the FBI. The agency said substantial progress had been made while acknowledging that significant investigative work remained.
The new U.S. case could add another dimension to the investigation as prosecutors examine whether Bryant's alleged assistance materially contributed to the attack. Canadian and U.S. authorities continue to coordinate as the legal proceedings move forward.
For Tumbler Ridge residents, the tragedy remains a painful chapter in the community's history. Schools, families and community organizations have continued efforts focused on healing, remembrance and supporting survivors.
Bryant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. The allegations against him are separate from the established facts surrounding the February shooting and will now be tested through the U.S. judicial process. The RCMP investigation in Canada also remains ongoing.
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