THE BC RCMP on Thursday released the official confirmation of the deceased victims of the February 10 Tumbler Ridge shooting.
As the community continues to process this profound loss, it remains essential that the focus stays on the victims, their families, and all those affected by this tragedy, the RCMP said.
They said that in consultation with the families, the following photos and personal statements were being shared to honour the lives lost. The RCMP are facilitating the release of these materials to support healing and help the community move forward together. Should circumstances change, or should additional photos or statements become available, updates will be provided accordingly.
– Victims from Tumbler Ridge Secondary School:
* Abel Mwansa: 12 years old
* Ezekiel Schofield: 13 years old
* Kylie Smith: 12 years old
* Zoey Benoit: 12 years old
* Ticaria Lampert: 12 years old
* Shannda Aviugana-Durand: 39 years old
– Victims from residence on Fellers Avenue
* Emmett Jacobs: 11 years old
* Jennifer Jacobs: 39 years old
Zoey Benoit
Age 12
“Our beautiful Zoey, our daughter, sister, niece, grand daughter and friend. She was so resilient, vibrant, smart, caring and the strongest little girl you could meet. She brought so much laughter and smiles in her presence. She loved spending time with her family where she could show her love. Our family is devastated by this loss, but we will cherish her memories with us so close to our hearts forever. She will forever be loved and never forgotten. We miss you beautiful girl, Zoey we love you so much.”
Kylie Smith
Age 12
“Kylie was the light in our family. She loved her family, friends, and going to school. She was a talented artist and had dreams of going to art school in the big city of Toronto. Rest in paradise, sweet girl, our family will never be the same without you.”
“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. This is a time of deep sorrow, and many are still processing the weight of this tragedy. We will continue to support the families, respect their wishes, and walk with the community as it begins the long journey toward healing,” said Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, BC RCMP Commanding Officer.
The RCMP said: “The families and loved ones of those who died are requesting privacy and time to grieve. We ask that the public and media respect their space as they navigate this devastating tragedy.”
