Crime
Madison Abundant Life Christian School shooter used a 9mm pistol
At least 3 individuals, including the suspected juvenile shooter, have been killed, and others injured.
Authorities have confirmed that three individuals, including the suspected shooter, are dead following a tragic shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, on Monday.
Several others sustained injuries during the incident, which occurred in the final week of classes before the school’s Christmas break.
According to law enforcement, the suspect, described as a juvenile, opened fire on the school campus, killing two individuals before losing their own life.
Authorities have not yet released details about the victims as they work to notify their families.
Investigators believe the suspected shooter used a 9mm handgun during the attack, a law enforcement official disclosed on condition of anonymity, as they were not authorized to speak publicly about the ongoing investigation.
Early reports had indicated five fatalities, but Madison Police clarified that three individuals, including the shooter, are deceased. Police Chief Shon F. Barnes noted that discrepancies in early fatality counts are not uncommon in mass shooting situations, as investigators work to gather accurate information and assess injuries.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is assisting local law enforcement, with agents on the scene supporting the investigation.
Abundant Life Christian School is a nondenominational private institution serving approximately 390 students from kindergarten through 12th grade, according to its website. The school is well-known in the community for its faith-based curriculum and close-knit environment.
Local and federal law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the incident, and authorities have urged the public to avoid the area surrounding the school. Families of students have been directed to a reunification center established at the SSM Health/Dean Clinic on Stoughton Road.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy,” said Chief Barnes. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones affected by this incident. Our officers and investigators are working tirelessly to determine what led to this senseless act of violence.”
Authorities have yet to disclose a motive for the shooting or additional details about the suspect. Police are continuing to process the scene, interview witnesses, and collect evidence.
The community remains in shock as they await further updates on the investigation. More information will be released as it becomes available.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.