Crime
“Show Some Human Decency”, Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway Urges Reporters to Respect Grieving Families After School Shooting
“None of you are obliged to stay here. You are free to leave at any time. It is absolutely none of your business who was harmed in this incident.”
Following the tragic shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway called for compassion and restraint from reporters covering the incident.
Speaking at a press briefing, the mayor emphasized the importance of respecting the privacy of grieving families and urged the media to avoid exploiting their pain.
“Have some human decency,” Mayor Rhodes-Conway implored. “Don’t feed off their suffering. These families need space to grieve, recover, and heal. Leave them alone. Let them process this unimaginable loss without added pressure.”
The mayor reassured the public that authorities would provide accurate and timely updates on the investigation.
However, she stressed that it was not the media’s role to probe into the identities or conditions of those affected.
“We will share good, factual information when we are able,” she continued. “None of you are obliged to stay here. You are free to leave at any time. It is absolutely none of your business who was harmed in this incident.”
Mayor Rhodes-Conway’s appeal highlighted the delicate balance between the public’s right to know and the families’ need for privacy during such a traumatic event. Her remarks served as a reminder to approach such situations with empathy and respect for those directly impacted.
Crime
Victims killed in Madison Abundant Life Christian School shooting identified as Erin West and Rubi Vergara
Natalie “Samantha” L. Rupnow, 15, of Madison: The suspected shooter, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office has released the identities of the three individuals who tragically lost their lives in the shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison on Monday, December 16, 2024.
The victims have been identified as:
- Erin M. West, 42, of Deforest: A staff member at the school.
- Rubi P. Vergara, 14, of Madison: A freshman student.
- Natalie “Samantha” L. Rupnow, 15, of Madison: The suspected shooter, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
According to the medical examiner, Erin West and Rubi Vergara were pronounced deceased at the scene. Forensic autopsies confirmed that both victims died from homicidal firearm-related trauma.
Natalie Rupnow, identified as the shooter, succumbed to a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The Madison Police Department reported that six additional individuals sustained injuries during the incident. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is ongoing.
The community is reeling from the tragedy, and arrangements are underway to honor the victims. Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Care has announced funeral services for Rubi Vergara.
- Funeral Service:
- Date: Saturday, December 21, 2024
- Time: 11 a.m.
- Location: City Church, 4909 E. Buckeye Road, Madison, WI
- Burial: Roselawn Memorial Park, following the service
- Visitation: Begins at 9 a.m. at the church
The Madison Police Department continues to work tirelessly to investigate this devastating incident, offering their support to the grieving families and the wider school community.