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A tragic shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, left the community in shock after a 15-year-old girl, Natalie Rupnow, allegedly opened fire on Monday (December 16). The incident resulted in the deaths of a teacher and a fellow student, while two students remain hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. Three other students and a teacher suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes stated that the motive behind the shooting appears to be a "combination of factors." Authorities are investigating whether bullying played a role. Chief Barnes emphasized that everyone at the school was targeted and in equal danger during the incident.
The suspect, Rupnow, died by suicide at the scene. Police are examining her online activity and have urged anyone with information about her to contact Madison Area Crime Stoppers. Her parents are cooperating with the investigation, with her father being questioned by investigators.
The shooting occurred in a classroom during a study hall with students from multiple grade levels. A second-grade teacher called 911 at 10:57 a.m. to report the incident. In response to the tragedy, a candlelight vigil was held at the state capitol to honor the victims.
"The Madison community experienced a terrible and traumatic event," Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway said at the vigil. "We will never be the same, but we will get through this. And we will get through this together by relying on each other and taking care of each other."