The small community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, is grappling with immense sorrow following a tragic mass shooting that claimed the lives of eight individuals on February 11. Family members of two victims, Jennifer Strang and her son Emmett Jacobs, are speaking out about their grief, urging the public to remember the victims for who they were, rather than their tragic circumstances.
A Family’s Heartbreak
Russell Strang Jr. and his wife Ashley, the uncle and aunt of Jennifer Strang, expressed their deep anguish in an interview with The Globe and Mail. They highlighted the difficulty of mourning their loved ones amidst the overwhelming stigma attached to the circumstances of their deaths. Jennifer, aged 39, and her 11-year-old son Emmett were among the first victims of the shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, 18, who is Jennifer’s eldest child. The shooting began at their home and continued at a local school, resulting in the deaths of six others, including five children.
In their statement, the Strangs described the shooting as an “awful and selfish act” and emphasised their desire to honour the memories of Jennifer and Emmett. “We mourn the devastating loss of Jennifer – a beloved sister and aunt – and our precious Emmett – a deeply loved nephew and cousin. They were cherished beyond measure,” they stated.
Remembering Lives Lost
The Strangs implored the community to focus on the victims rather than the tragic events that led to their deaths. “It is important to us that their names are remembered,” they asserted. “They were loved. They are loved. And they deserve to be honoured for the beautiful lives they lived.” The couple lamented the loss of not only their family members but also many other locals, as they were deeply connected within the community.
The violent incident took place at a school where a dedicated educator, aged 39, and five children lost their lives. The Strangs noted that many of the children killed had grown up alongside their own, further deepening the community’s collective grief.
The Importance of Community Support
In their time of sorrow, Russell Jr. and Ashley have found solace in the support of the Tumbler Ridge community. They expressed gratitude for the compassion shown during what they described as the “darkest days of their lives.” “We want to stand beside everyone – to grieve together, to pray together and to honour every innocent life taken,” they said.
During a heartfelt conversation, the couple reminisced about Emmett, recalling his joy for life and his love for animals, especially dogs. Russell Jr. shared a poignant memory of Emmett’s calm nature, even during a minor fishing accident that involved his younger brother John. “Emmett, in his typical calm nature, was unbothered,” he recalled, reflecting on the innocence of childhood.
A Call for Understanding
The Strangs have also urged the public to avoid making assumptions about their family dynamics. They revealed that they had not been in contact with Jennifer for several years and were unaware of the challenges she faced. “Not all families are close,” they reminded the community. Russell Jr. expressed regret over not being more involved in Emmett’s life, noting the “what-ifs” that loom in his mind.
As they shared their stories, the couple emphasised the strength of their niece. Despite her struggles, they highlighted her unwavering love for her children, saying, “She would take her last dollar to pay for something her kids wanted even if she couldn’t pay the bills.”
Why it Matters
The heartbreaking events in Tumbler Ridge serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact of community during times of tragedy. As loved ones seek to honour the lives lost, it is imperative that the focus remains on the victims and their families, fostering a spirit of support and understanding in the wake of incomprehensible loss. Recognising the humanity in each victim, rather than reducing them to mere statistics, enables the community to heal and come together in solidarity, ensuring that their memories endure long after the grief has subsided.