MADISON, Wis. — The main focus for law enforcement following the shooting at Abundant Life Christian School is to determine the motive behind the incident. This comes as the local community gathers in emotional vigils to remember a teacher and a student who lost their lives, along with others who were injured in the tragedy.

According to police, 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow opened fire during a study hall at the private institution, hitting multiple individuals in the classroom. Tragically, she passed away on the way to the hospital from what is believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, as stated by Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes, who added that the medical examiner has not verified the cause of death yet.

Officials are currently investigating the handgun discovered at the scene, along with the suspect’s electronic devices, social media profiles, and potential writings that have surfaced online. Barnes mentioned that detectives are consulting with the suspect’s family and friends to find out if there were “multiple factors,” including bullying, behind the shooting.

Authorities also indicated that it is too soon to determine where the suspect acquired the firearm or if any charges could be brought against Rupnow’s parents.

As of Tuesday afternoon, two students are in critical condition, while three additional students and one teacher sustained injuries that are not life-threatening, Barnes reported.

Vigil Honoring Abundant Life Christian School Victims

Across Madison, churches and nightly vigils have drawn crowds of people mourning the city’s second school shooting in under a year. On Tuesday evening, hundreds came to a public vigil at the downtown state Capitol, organized by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County. Attendees supported one another in lighting candles and signed three crosses placed on the grounds.

Charles Moore, the executive director of Impact Christian Schools, which includes Abundant Life, expressed to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, part of the YSL News Network, “it’s difficult to grasp the shock” of this incident.

“There are still some children in the hospital facing serious injuries,” Moore said. “The impact doesn’t just fade away after the first day or the initial moments. Lives have been irreparably affected.”

Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway addressed the gathered mourners, asserting that the city would be forever changed and encouraging people to support one another in the challenging times ahead.

“Let us strive to be a community that extends help to those in need and supplies resources whenever possible,” Rhodes-Conway stated. “Let us work together to care for everyone affected by this gun violence.”