The fatal shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, on 17th December 2024, claimed the lives of teacher Erin West, 42, and student Rubi Patricia Vergara, 14.

According to The Christian Post, two other students remain hospitalised with critical injuries.

Pastor Rob Warren of Doxa Church described Erin West as “a woman who loved Jesus and loved people".

West, a mother of three, had been a teacher at the school for four years and was a beloved member of her church community.

The attack, carried out by 15-year-old student Natalie 'Samantha' Rupnow, unfolded during the school’s snack break, lasting eight minutes.

Pastor Warren, one of the first responders on the scene, provided support to grieving parents and delivered the heartbreaking news of Erin’s passing to her family.

Barbara Wiers, Abundant Life’s elementary and communications director, expressed the school’s grief and hope for healing: “Are we broken right now? Yes. But we will laugh again, and he will turn our mourning into joy again.”

Rubi Vergara, the student victim, was remembered as an artistic soul who loved singing, playing keyboard, and reading.

The school described her as a gentle and loving presence who left a lasting impact on her peers.