The tragic school shooting in Canada has left the parents of a 12-year-old victim devastated after they received alarming news. Kylie Smith was among the eight individuals who lost their lives at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, making it the second deadliest school shooting in Canadian history. The shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, 18, first killed Kylie’s mother and 11-year-old step-brother before opening fire in the school’s library.
Kylie’s family was informed of the horrifying events unfolding in their small British Columbia town by her older brother, who was also present at the school that fateful day. Lance Younge, Kylie’s father, dropped off Kylie and her brother Ethan, 15, at school that morning. Ethan later contacted Lance and their stepmother, Jenny Geary, to alert them of the dangerous situation at the school.
Speaking to CTV News, Jenny recounted Ethan’s call, where he mentioned hiding in a utility room and expressed concern for Kylie’s whereabouts. Lance paid a heartfelt tribute to his daughter, describing her as a loving and artistic soul with aspirations of studying in Toronto. He emphasized Kylie’s positive nature and support for LGBTQ causes, highlighting her innocence and undeserved fate.
The devastated father recalled the poignant moment he last saw his children together before the tragedy unfolded. The shooting, which injured 27 others, has deeply impacted the tight-knit community of Tumbler Ridge. Among the injured is Maya Gebala, 12, whose mother, Cia Edmonds, shared a photo from her daughter’s hospital bedside, expressing hope for a miracle as Maya fights for her life.
Cia revealed the dire prognosis initially given for Maya’s condition, with doctors warning of severe brain damage. Despite the grim outlook, Cia remains hopeful for her daughter’s recovery, seeking solace in her presence and praying for a miracle. The incident has sent shockwaves through Canada and the small town of Tumbler Ridge, prompting a collective outpouring of support and prayers for the victims and their families.
