Natalie Rupnow dies in fatal Madison, Wisconsin school shooting

Natalie Rupnow dies in fatal Madison, Wisconsin school shooting

Fatal Madison, Wisconsin school shooting death of Natalie Rupnow – Obituary

A tragic incident unfolded Monday at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, when 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow fatally shot a teacher and another student before taking her own life. The attack shocked classmates, including a second grader who called 911, prompting a swift response from dozens of police officers.

In addition to the two deaths, Rupnow injured six others in a study hall, two of whom were critically wounded, according to Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes. Three more students and a teacher were treated for less serious injuries, with two already discharged by the evening.

Chief Barnes described the event as deeply affecting everyone in the school, emphasizing that all present would carry the trauma indefinitely. Barbara Wiers, the school’s director of elementary and school relations, praised students for their composure, noting that the lockdown announcement was taken as a real threat, unlike routine drills.

Police reported finding Rupnow with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and she was pronounced dead en route to the hospital. Authorities have not released further details out of respect for her family. Abundant Life, which serves approximately 420 students from prekindergarten through high school, relies on security cameras rather than metal detectors.

Parents were reunited with their children at a nearby health clinic, with many embracing their children tightly after the harrowing ordeal. Investigators have not determined a motive, and it remains unclear whether any victims were specifically targeted. Police have been consulting with Rupnow’s family while continuing their investigation, including a search of her home.

The first 911 call came just before 11 a.m., and officers, already nearby for training, arrived within three minutes. Law enforcement officials said Rupnow likely used a 9mm pistol. Roads around the school were closed as federal and local authorities worked together at the scene. No officers fired their weapons during the response.

The school community is now planning ways for staff and students to reconnect before the winter break, though it is uncertain when classes will resume. Parents expressed relief at their children’s safety, while national leaders, including President Joe Biden, reiterated calls for stricter gun control measures. Wisconsin officials described the tragedy as unthinkable and emphasized the need for stronger efforts to prevent gun violence.

This shooting is the latest in a series of school attacks in the United States, which have intensified debates over firearms and left lasting impacts on students, parents, and communities.