UFC President Dana White Offers to Pay for Tumbler Ridge Shooting Victim's Treatment

12-year-old Maya Gabela will receive specialized care in Los Angeles after family accepts White's offer.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:09am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a medical device or piece of equipment used to treat a mass shooting victim, lit by a harsh, direct flash against a dark background, creating a gritty, investigative aesthetic.A stark, close-up view of the specialized medical equipment being used to aid the recovery of a mass shooting victim, highlighting the critical care required.Los Angeles Today

UFC President Dana White has offered to cover the costs of transporting 12-year-old Maya Gabela, a victim of the mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, to Los Angeles for specialized treatment. Gabela's family has accepted the offer after much consideration, citing it as an opportunity they couldn't refuse as she continues to recover from critical injuries.

Why it matters

The Tumbler Ridge mass shooting was a tragic event that impacted the small Canadian community, and Dana White's offer to assist the victim's family with accessing advanced medical care highlights the UFC's commitment to supporting those affected by violence. This gesture could inspire others to lend a helping hand in times of crisis.

The details

According to reports, White made the offer to Gabela's family on March 25, agreeing to cover the costs of transporting her from BC Children's Hospital in Vancouver to a facility in Los Angeles, as well as the family's stay in LA. While there is no timeline on when the move will occur, Gabela's mother has shared that she has been moved out of the Intensive Care Unit and appears to be in stable condition, though the family is still processing the trauma and changes she faces.

  • On March 25, Dana White offered to cover the costs of Maya Gabela's treatment in Los Angeles.
  • Gabela has been moved out of the Intensive Care Unit at BC Children's Hospital in Vancouver.

The players

Dana White

The president of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), who has offered to pay for the treatment of a victim of the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting.

Maya Gabela

A 12-year-old girl who was critically injured in the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting in British Columbia, Canada.

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What they’re saying

“Maya is out of ICU. She's aware. She is seemingly stable. Are we out of the woods? Maybe. Maya is making strong strides that far exceed all and any expectations.”

— Maya Gabela's mother

“After many nights of research, questioning, and fear of the unknown, we decided to say yes to an opportunity for an aggressive approach to her rehabilitation through privatized health care. We are excited as well as nervous, away from family and resources, an opportunity we couldn't refuse.”

— Maya Gabela's mother

What’s next

There is no timeline yet on when Maya Gabela will be transported to Los Angeles for the specialized treatment offered by Dana White.

The takeaway

Dana White's offer to cover the costs of a mass shooting victim's treatment in Los Angeles demonstrates the UFC's commitment to supporting those affected by violence and tragedy. This gesture could inspire others to lend a helping hand in times of crisis and provide critical resources to families in need.