Authorities have identified multiple factors that may have driven a 15-year-old student to carry out a fatal shooting at Abundant Life Christian School, a private institution in Madison, Wisconsin. However, police declined to release further details, citing an ongoing investigation.
The shooting, which occurred on Monday, claimed three lives, including the perpetrator, identified as 15-year-old student Natalie Rupnow, who was also known as Samantha. Police stated that Rupnow appeared to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The other victims include a teacher and a teenage student, whose identities have not yet been disclosed.
In addition, six individuals one teacher and five students were injured in the attack. Four of the injured remain hospitalized.
During a news conference on Tuesday, Madison Police Chief Shon F. Barnes refrained from commenting on Rupnow’s potential motive, emphasizing the need to protect the integrity of the investigation. Chief Barnes encouraged anyone with information about Rupnow’s mental state prior to the incident to contact Madison CrimeStoppers.
Investigators are reviewing Rupnow’s social media activity and exploring whether bullying may have played a role in the attack. While Barnes acknowledged that investigators are trying to determine whether specific individuals were targeted, he clarified, “Everyone was targeted in this incident. Everyone was put in equal danger.”
The police are also investigating how Rupnow obtained the firearm used in the attack. Chief Barnes confirmed that Rupnow’s family is cooperating fully with the investigation.
Barnes addressed the circulation of an unverified document allegedly linked to the shooting, which has been shared online. He urged the public not to disseminate the document further, stating that detectives are working to determine its authenticity and origin. An update will be provided once more information becomes available.
Additionally, Barnes corrected earlier reports suggesting that the shooting was first reported to 911 by a second-grade student, clarifying that the report was actually made by a second-grade teacher.
Local officials noted that multiple swatting threats were called into schools in the area following the incident, leading to temporary lockdowns. None of these threats resulted in further violence.
A vigil to honor the victims is scheduled to take place at the Wisconsin State Capitol at 6 p.m. local time on Tuesday. Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway urged the community to come together in support of those affected by the tragedy.
