A juvenile student at Abundant Life Christian School, a private Christian school in Madison, Wisconsin, has been identified as the suspect in a shooting on Monday that left three people dead and six others injured, according to police.
The tragic event unfolded just before 11 a.m. when Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes said officers responded to reports of an active shooter. Upon arrival, they discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Victims and Casualties
Chief Barnes confirmed that nine people were injured in total, including three fatalities. Six others were hospitalized with injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening. Among those killed was the suspected shooter, who was found deceased in the school building. Barnes noted the initial report of five fatalities was corrected as more accurate information became available.
Barnes refrained from providing additional details about the victims or the suspect during the briefing, citing the ongoing investigation.
“This is something that we all prepare for, but we hope we never have to do,” Barnes said. Officers continued to clear the school and surrounding area to ensure no further threats, ultimately concluding there was no ongoing danger to the community.
School and Community Impact
The school, located at 4901 E. Buckeye Road, serves about 390 students from kindergarten through high school. Established in 1978, it represents a diverse community of families from 56 churches across Dane County.
Photos and video from the scene showed a heavy police presence, with fire trucks and law enforcement vehicles surrounding the building. Roads in the area were temporarily closed, and a public safety alert was sent to nearby residents around 11:20 a.m.
In a Facebook post shortly after noon, the school confirmed the "active shooter incident" and requested prayers for the community.
Statements from Officials
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers expressed his sorrow and support, posting on X (formerly Twitter): “Praying for the kids, educators, and entire Abundant Life school community as we await more information. Grateful for the first responders who are working quickly to respond.”
Law enforcement has promised further updates as they continue their investigation into the events and the motives of the suspect.
A Community in Mourning
As Madison processes the tragedy, the focus remains on supporting the affected families, students, and staff. This shooting marks another somber chapter in the ongoing national conversation about gun violence in schools, renewing calls for measures to ensure the safety of children and educators.
