SEATTLE – A recent complaint filed by the FBI against James Bryant in U.S. district court unveils serious allegations linked to the mass shootings in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, where eight victims lost their lives on February 10, 2026. The complaint details the connection between Bryant and the shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, highlighting a troubling pattern of communication and collaboration leading up to the tragic events.
According to FBI Special Agent Joseph Rico, Bryant, a resident of Bellingham, Washington, initially connected with Van Rootselaar online approximately three years prior to the incident. Their communication broke off while Van Rootselaar was institutionalized for setting her room on fire. However, they resumed daily conversations in the six months leading up to the murders, with their exchanges occurring predominantly on the Discord platform, where Van Rootselaar operated under two accounts.
The FBI's allegations suggest that Bryant played a significant role in encouraging and advising Van Rootselaar over several months, assisting in the preparation for a livestream of the murders. The complaint asserts that Bryant admitted to helping test the livestream equipment and provided tactical advice on executing the attack. Notably, in discussions regarding potential target locations, Bryant allegedly pointed out that “hallways also mean a lot of ways people can escape,” and indicated that open spaces would provide opportunities to maximize casualties.
In the days just before the attack, while Bryant reportedly told Van Rootselaar that she did not have to proceed with the plan, he continued to help her test the livestream and did not inform law enforcement about her intentions. On the day of the tragic events, he allegedly assisted her in starting the car she would drive to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where six victims were killed.
The complaint includes chilling details captured on CCTV footage, which purportedly shows Van Rootselaar entering Tumbler Ridge Secondary School through a side entrance and opening fire on students and staff. After reportedly incapacitating several victims, she ignited an explosive device, which created visible blast marks within the school. Following attempts to enter other areas, she fired shots into locked doors before ultimately retreating into a room, where she took her own life.
Rico's complaint states that Bryant played a vital role in posting a livestream of the attack on Twitch, which lasted approximately 20 seconds. During the stream, Van Rootselaar is alleged to have declared, “I’m going now. Fr (for real). Live. I shot them,” to which Bryant feigned support by responding, “Watching now.”
The complaint also features photographic evidence of firearms, including one taken shortly before the attack, showing Van Rootselaar in a provocative pose with an olive-green rifle. The rifle was reportedly fitted with a suppressor adorned with bands representing the transgender pride flag, an aspect noted as significant since both Van Rootselaar and Bryant identify as part of the transgender community. This highlights the broader context of identity within the case.
Furthermore, details reveal how Van Rootselaar allegedly shared with Bryant her possession of stolen firearms and ammunition from her family's gun safe, as well as plans to acquire more ammunition through manipulation. Bryant reportedly acknowledged that Van Rootselaar had informed him about various firearms and accessories, which included a 3D printed foregrip and a conversion device for a firearm.
In planning the attack, Van Rootselaar allegedly contemplated several locations, initially considering a Walmart or Costco but ultimately settling on Tumbler Ridge Secondary School after determining it would provide her with the best opportunity to inflict harm without immediate police response.
The motive for the assault appears to stem from Van Rootselaar’s escalating anger and suicidal tendencies, particularly following her institutionalization. She had spoken of her desire to use firearms against her family and others, attributing her feelings of mistreatment as a catalyst for violence. The complaint references Bryant's belief that Van Rootselaar was fixated on mass shootings, often viewing recorded livestreams of past events to draw inspiration.
This case raises significant questions about the dynamics between individuals in planning and carrying out acts of violence, particularly concerning online communication and the influence of accomplices. As the legal process unfolds, the allegations against Bryant remain untested in court, underscoring the complexities surrounding accountability in such tragic occurrences.
