By Ellen Hambuba
A 12‑year‑old Zambian national is among the eight people killed in a mass shooting at a secondary school in British Columbia, Canada.
Abel Mwansa Junior lost his life in the incident at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, which also left several others injured.
Government has expressed profound shock and sorrow over the death of the young Zambian.
In a message of condolence made available to ZNBC News, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe said Zambia is heartbroken by the tragic loss and shares in the pain of the bereaved family.
Mr. Haimbe conveyed the nation’s deepest sympathies to Abel’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Abel Mwansa, the entire family, and the Zambian community, describing the shooting as a senseless act of violence.
He also expressed Zambia’s solidarity with the people and Government of Canada, and the Tumbler Ridge community, as they mourn the loss of innocent lives, including children.
Meanwhile, the BBC reports that 18‑year‑old Jesse Van Rootselaar, who was found dead at the scene from a self‑inflicted gunshot injury, has been named as the suspect in the shooting.
