Van Der Beek's Family Raises $1M After Death; School Shooting Rocks Canada

Actor James Van Der Beek, best known for his role in Dawson's Creek, died at the age of 48 on February 11, 2026, after battling colorectal cancer. Following the news of his death, a GoFundMe account was launched by friends of the actor, raising $1 million in a matter of hours to support his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and family, according to Variety.

The actor's diagnosis was revealed in late 2024, highlighting the importance of early detection and regular screenings for this type of cancer, according to BBC Breaking. Van Der Beek's former co-stars expressed their grief, and fans and colleagues were encouraged to support his family through the fundraiser to help with medical and family expenses, BBC Breaking reported.

In other news, authorities identified 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar as the shooter in a mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, according to multiple news sources cited by BBC World and The Guardian. The shooting resulted in nine deaths, including the suspect, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and her mother and step-brother at their home before the school shooting, The Guardian reported. The suspect used two firearms, one of which was a long gun, to kill a teacher and five students at the local high school before the police were called, according to The Guardian.

The tragedy in Tumbler Ridge has deeply impacted the community, with residents and officials expressing disbelief and sorrow, Sky News reported. The police have yet to release details about the suspect, according to Sky News. The shooting, considered unusual for Canada, occurred in the small, isolated town, Sky News noted.