A family’s grief, already shattered by unimaginable loss, has been compounded by a chilling wave of threats. The parents of Kylie Smith, a vibrant 12-year-old girl murdered in the Tumbler Ridge shooting, were forced to cancel her funeral after receiving credible death threats.
The threats, reportedly originating from within the transgender community and its supporters, cast a dark shadow over a family already reeling from tragedy. Eight people lost their lives in the horrific attack, and twenty-five more were injured when Jesse Van Rootselaar, an 18-year-old, opened fire.
Kylie was a bright light, a young artist with dreams of attending art school in Toronto. She loved anime and figure skating, filling her life with creativity and joy. She was tragically taken alongside five other students – Abel Mwansa, Zoey Benoit, Ticaria Lampert, Ezekiel Schofield – and a beloved teacher, Shannda Aviugana-Durand.
The senseless violence began at home, where Van Rootselaar murdered his mother and half-brother before turning his rage towards Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Authorities had previously responded to the family’s residence multiple times due to concerns about the shooter’s mental health.
Disturbing reports have surfaced revealing Van Rootselaar’s preoccupation with violent fantasies, discussed openly in online forums. He reportedly confessed to a dangerous addiction to violent content and even explored disturbing scenarios with AI chatbots.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is actively investigating the threats against Kylie’s family, Lance Younge and Jenny Geary, which have surfaced both online and within the community. A safety plan has been implemented to protect those targeted.
Kylie’s father shared a heart-wrenching statement, expressing profound sorrow over the cancellation of the funeral. He revealed that they are at least the third family of a victim to be subjected to harassment and intimidation since the tragedy unfolded.
He spoke of the incredible outpouring of support from the community – businesses closing their doors in respect, individuals volunteering their time – and apologized for the disruption caused by the cancellation. Their priority, he explained, was to prevent further violence.
“Mostly, we are sorry to you Kylie,” the statement concluded, a father’s desperate plea to his lost daughter. “Our girl. This was supposed to be your day. I promise we will give you the most lovely, beautiful event when the time is right. We love you so much and will do right by you. I promise.”
The RCMP has relocated Kylie’s family to a secure location, acknowledging that multiple families connected to the shooting are now facing similar threats and harassment. The investigation continues, seeking to bring those responsible for the intimidation to justice.
