Crime
20-year-old Alexander Paffendorf Detained for Alleged Coordinated Mass Shooting Plot with ALCS suspect Natalie Rupnow
During an FBI interview, Paffendorf admitted to FBI agents that he told Rupnow he would arm himself with explosives and a gun and target a government building.
Authorities have detained a 20-year-old California man, Alexander Paffendorf, in connection with the tragic school shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin.
Investigators believe Paffendorf may have coordinated with the shooter, 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow, in planning a series of violent attacks.
According to a gun violence restraining order issued by the Carlsbad Police Department, Paffendorf and Rupnow reportedly exchanged messages about simultaneous attacks.
Rupnow carried out the shooting at the Wisconsin school on Monday, while Paffendorf allegedly planned to target a government building in California.
The restraining order stated:
“During an FBI interview, Paffendorf admitted to FBI agents that he told Rupnow he would arm himself with explosives and a gun and target a government building.”
The order did not specify which government building Paffendorf allegedly planned to attack or the exact contents of the messages exchanged between the two.
On Tuesday evening, just hours after the Madison shooting, a San Diego judge approved an emergency restraining order under California’s red flag gun law.
The order requires Paffendorf to surrender all firearms and ammunition to law enforcement within 48 hours.
California’s red flag law allows authorities to restrict access to firearms when individuals are deemed a threat to public safety.
Authorities are investigating the alleged communications between Rupnow and Paffendorf to gain insight into Rupnow’s motive for the school shooting.
The attack left two people dead—14-year-old Rubi P. Vergara and 42-year-old teacher Erin West—and six others injured. Rupnow died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, are working to piece together the details of the alleged coordinated plot.
The case highlights the increasing use of red flag laws to prevent potential threats and underscores the challenges of addressing coordinated acts of violence.
Further updates are expected as investigators review the communications and gather additional evidence to understand the extent of the alleged collaboration.
Crime
Multiple people detained after reports of shooting at Cumberland Mall, no victim located
Investigators are actively working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Cumberland Mall, Cobb County, GA – An increased law enforcement presence was observed Sunday evening at Cumberland Mall as Cobb County Police responded to reports of a shooting stemming from a large fight.
The incident occurred as the mall was bustling with shoppers completing last-minute holiday errands.
According to initial reports, multiple individuals have been detained for questioning.
However, authorities have stated that no shooting victims have been located at this time.
Investigators are actively working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Cobb County Police have issued a public advisory asking residents and shoppers to avoid the area while the investigation remains ongoing.
Officers are maintaining a strong presence at the scene to ensure public safety and gather evidence related to the reported altercation.
“We are aware of the situation and are taking every precaution to secure the area while conducting a thorough investigation,” a police spokesperson stated.
Further updates are expected as additional details become available.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about the incident to contact the Cobb County Police Department. In the meantime, residents are urged to remain vigilant and steer clear of the area until it has been deemed secure.