Crime
“Mom, I’m Okay”: 17-year-old Jael Anna Marie Texts Mother After Shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison
The Smiths revealed they knew the victims of the shooting—a teacher and a student—but chose not to disclose their identities out of respect.
“Mom, I’m okay.” That was the reassuring text Rebekah Smith received from her 17-year-old daughter Jael Anna Marie on Monday following the tragic shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin.
On Tuesday, Rebekah shared her experience, explaining that she wasn’t initially aware of the incident. When she finally checked her phone, she found “no less than 50 texts,” including the crucial message from her daughter.
“Immediately, you feel a pit in your stomach,” said James Smith, Rebekah’s husband. “You’re wondering, what does this mean for my child? You plan for these things, and you don’t want to, but it’s the world we live in today.”
The Smiths revealed they knew the victims of the shooting—a teacher and a student—but chose not to disclose their identities out of respect.
Rebekah reflected on the teacher’s dedication, saying, “That particular teacher would have done anything for those kids. She loved her school, loved her kids, and loved teaching.”
“They were beautiful lights, beautiful souls,” James added.
Rebekah, who regularly volunteers at the school, described the safety protocols in place, noting it typically takes her about five minutes to be allowed into the building.
“There are measures in place, and everyone works hard to keep the students safe,” she said.
The Smiths emphasized that the close-knit community is leaning on one another as they grapple with the aftermath of the shooting.
In a separate statement on Tuesday, Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes issued a clarification regarding earlier reports about a 911 call during the incident.
While initial information suggested the call came from a second-grade student, Barnes corrected himself, stating that the call was actually made by a second-grade teacher.
“I’d like to provide an important clarification. Yesterday, after reviewing the computer-aided dispatch system, it appeared that a call came from a second grader. In reality, the call was made by a second-grade teacher,” Chief Barnes explained. “That was a mistake, and I take full responsibility. I sincerely apologize.”
The community remains united, focusing on supporting one another while honoring the memory of the victims and the bravery shown during the tragic event.
The Chicago Police Department has charged a man in connection with the fatal stabbing of a woman at a CTA Green Line station on Thursday afternoon.
Willi Holmes, 54, faces one felony count of first-degree murder following the death of 25-year-old Emily Carlson.
According to authorities, the incident occurred around 1:00 p.m. at the Central Avenue Green Line station.
Preliminary investigations reveal that Carlson was with another individual when a verbal altercation broke out involving Holmes.
The argument escalated into a physical confrontation, during which Holmes allegedly produced a knife and stabbed Carlson in the back.
Holmes then fled the scene.
Emergency medical personnel responded, and Carlson was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.
Chicago police officers quickly located and arrested Holmes shortly after the attack.
A weapon believed to have been used in the stabbing was recovered at the time of his arrest.
Sources indicated that the altercation began on the station platform and continued onto the street.
Holmes is currently in custody and is scheduled to appear at a detention hearing on Saturday.
The investigation remains ongoing.