US Man Charged in Canada School Attack Conspiracy

A 30-year-old Washington state resident faces charges of conspiracy to commit murder in a foreign country after federal authorities alleged his involvement in a February mass school shooting in Canada. The suspect is accused of providing technical guidance, financial assistance, and operational advice to the perpetrator of the attack. Investigations indicate the two individuals coordinated through digital messaging platforms for approximately six months prior to the incident.

Digital Coordination and Evasion Tactics

Evidence suggests the US suspect advised the Canadian shooter on methods to evade law enforcement detection, including the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) and the deletion of communication logs. This guidance aimed to obscure the planning and execution of the attack. The suspect also allegedly provided real-time technical assistance during the commission of the crime, reportedly facilitating the shooter’s transit to the target location after an initial vehicle malfunction.

Livestreaming and Financial Support

Bryant reportedly sent Van Rootselaar approximately $100 for Authorities further allege that the suspect agreed to livestream the event, a factor investigators believe was critical in the shooter's decision to proceed with the attack. Court documents, cited by CBC, indicate the US individual, identified as James Codey Bryant, conspired with the Canadian shooter, Jesse Van Rootselaar, starting in or before August 2025.

Bryant reportedly sent Van Rootselaar approximately $100 for new shoes and $15 for a lighter, though police state there is no indication the two ever met in person. Broader Implications for Digital Oversight This development unfolds amid ongoing litigation against the developer of an artificial intelligence chatbot that the shooter allegedly used to plan the attack.

The case highlights significant regulatory and security concerns at the intersection of digital platform oversight, online radicalization, and the failure of private entities to report potential threats to law enforcement. Authorities confirmed the FBI is leading the investigation in the US, working closely with Canadian counterparts.