Residents of Madison mourned on Tuesday following a tragic attack at Abundant Life Christian School that left a teenage student and a teacher dead, along with six others injured. The shooter, a 15-year-old female student, also died.
City officials released little new information during a news conference led by Police Chief Shon F. Barnes, who did not take questions. A makeshift memorial was established outside the school, prompting families to reflect on the shocking event that occurred at the private institution known for its academic and Christian values.
Michael Skalitzky, a grandparent of three students at Abundant Life, expressed disbelief at the incident, stating, “I just could never visualize that happening in that school.” Plans for a vigil and prayer service emerged as community members prayed for the families of the deceased and for the recovery of the surviving victims, four of whom remained hospitalized.
Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway emphasized the privacy of those affected, stating, “It is absolutely none of y’all’s business who was harmed in this incident.” Chief Barnes provided a brief statement regarding the motive, indicating it was a combination of factors but did not elaborate further. He confirmed that all individuals present were put in equal danger during the attack.
Founded in 1978, Abundant Life has seen significant growth, with current enrollment around 420 students, up from approximately 290 three years ago. Many families chose the school for its academic excellence, strong sports teams, and emphasis on Christian faith.
Parents shared their positive experiences at the school, highlighting the supportive environment. Nick Ives noted the dedication of teachers, while Nick Cardarella described the welcoming atmosphere, stating, “It’s come as you are.”
The shooting occurred on Monday morning shortly after students returned for the final week of classes before Christmas break. A teacher called 911 at 10:57 a.m. to report the incident, which Chief Barnes clarified was made by a second-grade teacher, not a student as previously stated.
Law enforcement arrived three minutes later and located the shooter by 11:05 a.m., who had sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The shooter, identified as Natalie Rupnow, was a student at Abundant Life and used a handgun in the attack. The source of the firearm remains unclear.
Chief Barnes stated there was no prior contact with law enforcement concerning the shooter, and her parents were cooperating with the investigation. At the time of the report, two individuals were hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, among six total injured, including five students and a teacher.
The incident has deeply affected the Madison community, with residents expressing concern. University of Wisconsin student Coco Chen remarked, “even though you’re scared, your life has to keep going on.”
Barbara Wiers, an official at Abundant Life, noted that students and staff had undergone training for such emergencies and that while the school monitored security cameras, it did not have metal detectors or a police officer on site.
As families grappled with the aftermath of the attack, many turned to their faith for support. Hannah Lease, a parent of two Abundant Life students, described the community as tightknit, stating, “That’s what keeps us going during this time.”