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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.

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Victims killed in Madison Abundant Life Christian School shooting identified as Erin West and Rubi Vergara

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.

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  • 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.


Crime

Ohio Shooting Leaves Suspect and 4-Year-Old Girl Dead, Officer Injured

During the exchange of gunfire, 4-year-old Rosalie Carey, who was inside a nearby business, was tragically struck by a stray bullet.

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COLUMBIANA COUNTY, OH – A tragic shooting incident in Calcutta on Wednesday afternoon resulted in the deaths of a suspect and a 4-year-old girl Rosalie Carey, while a police officer Dakota Wetzel remains hospitalized after undergoing surgery. According to St. Clair Township Police Chief Brian McKenzie, officers responded around 2 p.m. to reports of a suicidal male walking down the street with a firearm. Upon locating the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Joseph Como, officers attempted to make contact.

COLUMBIANA COUNTY, OH – A tragic shooting incident in Calcutta on Wednesday afternoon resulted in the deaths of a suspect and a 4-year-old girl, while a police officer remains hospitalized after undergoing surgery.

According to St. Clair Township Police Chief Brian McKenzie, officers responded around 2 p.m. to reports of a suicidal male walking down the street with a firearm.

Upon locating the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Joseph Como, officers attempted to make contact.

“Almost immediately, the man pulled a weapon and opened fire on my officers,” McKenzie stated. “Officers returned fire, striking the suspect.”

During the exchange of gunfire, 4-year-old Rosalie Carey, who was inside a nearby business, was tragically struck by a stray bullet.

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She was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to her injuries later in the evening, authorities confirmed.

Como was also fatally wounded during the shootout and pronounced dead at the scene.

One St. Clair Township police officer Dakota Wetzel sustained gunshot wounds and was airlifted to a hospital in Pittsburgh, where he underwent emergency surgery.

Chief McKenzie reported that the officer is currently in stable condition and is receiving medical care.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with our injured officer and the family of the young girl whose life was tragically lost,” McKenzie said. “Right now, we are working diligently to gather all the facts and keep the community informed.”

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The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has assumed responsibility for the case and is conducting a thorough review of the incident. Counselors have been made available to support the officers involved.

Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding the incident to contact the St. Clair Township Police Department.


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