Official announcements from Abundant Life Christian School or local news reports

Two Killed, Six Injured in Madison, Wisconsin School Shooting; Teacher Erin West and Student Rubi Vergara Identified

Dec 18, 2024, 11:39 PM

On December 16, 2024, a school shooting occurred at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, resulting in the deaths of a teacher and a student, and injuring six others. The deceased have been identified as Erin Michelle West, 42, and Rubi Patricia Vergara, 14. The shooter, identified as Natalie 'Samantha' Rupnow, 15, reportedly had two handguns, one of which was used in the attack. Authorities are investigating a potential motive and have detained a 20-year-old man from California, Alexander Paffendorf, who allegedly communicated with Rupnow and was planning a separate attack on a government building. This incident marks at least the 83rd school shooting in the U.S. in 2024, raising concerns about gun violence and school safety. The police clarified that the initial report of a second grader calling 911 was incorrect; it was actually a second-grade teacher who made the call. The investigation continues as the community mourns the victims and seeks answers.