A teenage student and a substitute teaching coordinator have been identified as the victims killed at a private Christian school in Madison, Wisconsin, on Monday.
The Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the deaths of Rubi Vergara, 14, and Erin West, 42.
Both were pronounced dead at the scene after 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow opened fire on classmates and staff before fatally shooting herself.
Rubi Vergara, a freshman, was remembered as a vibrant young girl who loved reading, art, singing, and playing keyboard in her family’s worship band. A local funeral site described her as deeply cherished by her parents, brother, and extended family.
Erin West, who served as a substitute teaching coordinator, was described as “kind and caring” by seventh-grader Angel Brube, who was present during the shooting.
The school’s communication director, Barbara Wiers, expressed sorrow over the tragedy, saying, “Our hearts are heavy with these losses.”
Police are working to uncover the motive behind Rupnow’s actions. Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes said on Tuesday that the motive appeared to involve “a combination of factors”.
Rupnow had two handguns, but authorities have yet to determine how she acquired them.
No decisions have been made about whether her parents will face charges.
In a separate but related development, police in California issued a gun violence restraining order against a 20-year-old man they say was in contact with Rupnow.
According to court documents, the man had been planning an attack on a government building and had shared his intentions with Rupnow.
Two other students shot during the incident remain in critical condition, while four others suffered minor injuries.
The Madison community has rallied together, with worshippers gathering at Blackhawk Church to pray for the victims and their families.
