MADISON, WISCONSIN – A 15-year-old female student who opened fire at Abundant Life Christian School on Monday, December 16, killing a teacher and another student, has been identified as Natalie Rupnow, also known as “Samantha,” according to Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes.
During a press conference on Monday afternoon, Chief Barnes confirmed that the shooter died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the hospital. The incident has left the community shaken as officials investigate the motives and circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Barnes revealed that Rupnow’s father is currently speaking with Madison police at one of their facilities. Investigators are seeking to determine whether the father was aware of any information about his daughter’s actions, though Barnes noted that the father has also lost someone in this tragic event.
Timeline of Events
According to Barnes, the call to 911 came at approximately 11 a.m. on Monday, reporting an active shooter at Abundant Life Christian School. Police quickly responded to the scene and found that three individuals, including the shooter, had died. Additionally, six others were injured and transported to nearby hospitals. Authorities reported that the injuries range from mild to life-threatening, though their exact conditions have not been disclosed.
The shooter was located deceased inside the school upon the officers’ arrival. Barnes emphasized that police did not discharge their firearms during the incident and are still piecing together the events leading to the shooting.
Investigation and Public Safety
Barnes confirmed that authorities are actively investigating the situation, including the search of the shooter’s residence with a court-issued search warrant. The family is reportedly cooperating with the investigation as police try to determine any potential warning signs, motivations, or contributing factors to the attack.
The chief also shared that a second-grade student had contacted 911 to report the shooting, highlighting the frightening and chaotic environment as the event unfolded. Barnes strongly urged the public to refrain from gathering at the school for vigils or memorials, as the school remains an active crime scene.
Community in Mourning
The tragedy has rocked the Madison community as students, parents, and school officials grapple with the aftermath. The identities of the two victims killed have not yet been released, leaving the community to mourn the loss of innocent lives.
As this investigation progresses, officials are working to ensure the safety of the community and provide mental health support to all impacted by the shooting. With the investigation still in its early stages, police are maintaining a focus on evidence collection, witness interviews, and attempting to determine how this devastating event unfolded.
The community remains on high alert as the investigation develops, and officials continue to seek clarity in a tragedy that has left so many questions unanswered. Further updates will be shared as the investigation moves forward.
