Wisconsin school shooting: Suspect identified as gun-toting 15-year-old girl
What's the story
A 15-year-old student, identified as Natalie "Samantha" Rupnow, opened fire at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin on Monday. The shooting left a teacher and a fellow student dead. Rupnow was later found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Six other students were injured in the attack, two of whom suffered life-threatening injuries.
Ongoing probe
Investigation underway into Wisconsin school shooting
The shooting took place just days before the school was scheduled to close for the Christmas holiday break. Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes confirmed that officers did not fire their weapons during the incident. A second-grade student called 911 to report the shooting. Authorities are currently investigating where Rupnow got the 9mm pistol used in the attack.
Motive unknown
Rupnow's motive remains unclear, family cooperating with investigation
School shootings by girls are extremely rare, constituting only about 3% of all mass shootings in the US. The motive behind Rupnow's actions is still unknown. However, her family is cooperating with investigators in their ongoing inquiry. Police are also looking into a document circulating on social media which could provide insight into her motive.
Crisis response
Major emergency response to Wisconsin school shooting
The incident led to a massive emergency response, with 15 ambulances sent to the scene. Federal agencies, including the FBI, assisted local law enforcement in responding to the crisis. Nine public schools in Madison were placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure after the shooting at Abundant Life Christian School.
Presidential response
President Biden condemns gun violence in wake of shooting
Reacting to the tragedy, President Joe Biden released a statement condemning gun violence. "It is unacceptable that we are unable to protect our children from this scourge of gun violence," he said. He also called on Congress to pass tougher gun-control laws in the wake of the incident. The community now mourns as officials continue to investigate this horrific incident.