On Monday, the city of Madison, Wisconsin was hit by a tragic shooting at Abundant Life Christian School, a private Christian school. A student opened fire, killing two people and injuring six others before killing himself. Founded in 1978, the establishment educates around 400 students from kindergarten to high school. 20 Minutes takes stock of the new drama affecting the United States.
What exactly happened?
The shooting broke out shortly before 11 a.m. at this private school which welcomes students from kindergarten to 12th grade. Law enforcement was alerted to an “active shooter” incident. When they arrived, they evacuated the scene and secured the perimeter.
On site, the police discovered three bodies, including that of the shooter, who apparently committed suicide by turning his weapon against himself (a 9 mm caliber pistol). A teacher and a student were also killed. Police say two of the six injured are in critical condition, while the others suffered less serious injuries and were transported to local hospitals. Authorities quickly confirmed that no shots were fired by law enforcement and that there was no longer any immediate danger to the community.
What is the profile of the alleged killer?
Police confirmed the shooter was a student enrolled at Abundant Life Christian School. Although his identity has not been made public, investigators are working to understand his motivations. No precise information has yet been communicated on his background, his background or his reasons for acting. According to CNN, the family of the student suspected of opening fire is fully cooperating with police. Still according to CNN, it would be a seventeen-year-old girl.
This tragedy comes against a backdrop of an increase in school shootings in the United States. Last May, a similar incident took place at a college in Mount Horeb, in the same state, where an armed individual was shot dead by police after threatening students with an air rifle.
What are the reactions?
Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes called the event “a sad day for Madison and for the country.” Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers also responded to X. “We pray for the children, teachers and entire community of Abundant Life Christian School. We are grateful to the first responders who responded quickly,” he wrote. The school posted a message on its Facebook page asking for prayers for affected families.
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Local leaders, including Sen. Ron Johnson, offered their condolences to the victims’ families on social media. Many elected officials are calling for in-depth reflection on the measures to be taken to prevent such tragedies. From the White House, Joe Biden sent his prayers to the entire city community.
What will happen now?
An ongoing investigation to understand the motivations of the alleged killer. Investigators are working with local and federal authorities to analyze the circumstances of the shooting. The shooter’s motives remain unclear at this time, but investigators are examining his psychological state and possible warning signs.
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Wisconsin school authorities and social services have set up crisis units to provide psychological support to affected students, staff and families. Special telephone lines have been activated for those who feel the need to speak to a professional.
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