Father of Tumbler Ridge shooter releases statement, addresses 'unforgivable act of violence'

The father of 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, who shot and killed eight people Tuesday in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., has shared a statement.

Justin Van Rootselaar issued the statement published by various Canadian news outlets, including CTV, CBC and Global News, on Friday. He expressed his “heartfelt condolences” to families who lost loves ones and everyone affected by the “senseless and unforgivable act of violence.”

He said although he was Jesse’s biological father, they were estranged.