Erin Michelle West, a teacher, was tragically killed in a Wisconsin school shooting that also claimed the life of a 14-year-old student.
Madison: The heartbreaking news came in that Erin Michelle West, a 42-year-old teacher, was killed in a school shooting in Wisconsin. The Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed her identity on Wednesday night.
Earlier that day, it was reported that 14-year-old Rubi Vergara also lost her life in the tragic incident at Abundant Life Christian School on Monday.
Police had identified 15-year-old Natalie “Samantha” Rupnow as the shooter, but they haven’t shared any details about why this happened.
Both West and Vergara were pronounced dead at the scene, and the medical examiner confirmed they died from gunshot wounds.
The investigation is ongoing, with the Madison Police Department looking into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Charles Moore, who leads Madison Christian schools, expressed the community’s shock during a vigil. He mentioned that many are still grappling with the aftermath.
“It’s hard to comprehend the shock,” he said. “Lives have been torn apart.”
The school will remain closed until after the Christmas break, as the community mourns.
The Madison Police Department released a statement emphasizing their commitment to transparency while also respecting the victims’ privacy.
They noted that two people died and six others were injured, and it appears the shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
As the investigation continues, police have asked for patience from the public, promising to share more information when they can.
At a press conference, Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway made it clear that the identities of the victims were not for public scrutiny.