What's New
A California man linked to the Wisconsin school shooter is under a restraining order to surrender his firearms after the FBI uncovered his plans for a mass shooting.
The man had been messaging the shooter, Natalie Rupnow, about attacking a government building with a gun and explosives, according to authorities and court documents that became public Wednesday.
Why It Matters
Rupnow, a 15-year-old student at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, brought two guns to the school, killed a teacher and a fellow student, and critically injured two others before turning the weapon on herself.
The link between Rupnow and a man plotting another attack raises concerns about how digital communications may enable such acts. This tragedy underscores the ongoing challenges of preventing school shootings and the broader implications of online connections fostering violence.
What to Know
The victims of Monday's shooting have been identified as Rubi Patricia Vergara, 14, and Erin Michelle West, 42. Vergara, a freshman described as an avid reader and artist who had attended the school since kindergarten.
West, a substitute teacher, had recently taken on a permanent role.
Police Chief Shon Barnes confirmed Rupnow brought two handguns to the school, though it remains unclear how she obtained them.
Her parents, who are divorced and shared custody, have been cooperating with authorities. Investigators are examining her interactions with the California man, who allegedly discussed plans for a mass shooting involving guns and explosives.
The rare occurrence of a teenage female perpetrator adds another layer of complexity. David Riedman, founder of the K-12 School Shooting Database, pointed out that most school shootings are carried out by males.
Authorities are also trying to determine if Rupnow targeted specific individuals or acted impulsively.
What People Are Saying
Barbara Wiers, the school's communications director: "Our hearts are heavy with these losses."
Police Chief Shon Barnes: "To me, bringing a gun to school to hurt people is planning. And so we don't know what the premeditation is. We may never know what she was thinking that day, but we'll do our best to try to add or give as much information to our public as possible,"
David Riedman, founder of the K-12 School Shooting Database: "School shootings by teenage females have been extremely rare in the U.S."
What Happens Next
The investigation continues as police and the FBI analyze Rupnow's communications and the events leading up to the attack. No charges have been filed against her parents, and the case remains under review.
This shooting has renewed calls for addressing school safety, firearm access, and the role of mental health interventions.
Abundant Life Christian School, a nondenominational institution with 420 students, mourns the lives lost while grappling with the tragedy's aftermath.
This article includes reporting by The Associated Press
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