Police Investigate 15-Year-Old Natalie Rupnow’s Motive Behind Christian School Shooting, Believed to Be a ‘Combination of Factors’

As reported by The Associated Press (AP), Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes stated that investigators are working to understand the reasons behind the attack. “Identifying a motive is our top priority, but at this time it appears that the motive is a combination of factors,” he said.

The shooter used a handgun in the attack, and police are working to determine how she obtained the weapon. Barnes also confirmed that investigators are examining whether the firearm was owned or possessed by her parents.

“We also want to look at if the parents may have been negligent. And that’s a question that we’ll have to answer with our district attorney’s office,” Barnes said. “But at this time, that does not appear to be the case.”

Police are also speaking with Rupnow’s father to gather information about his knowledge of the events leading up to the shooting and whether he was aware of any warning signs or plans. Barnes noted the difficulty of the situation, “But again, he lost someone as well.”Investigators believe Rupnow was already inside the school when the attack began and have confirmed that no security breach occurred.

When asked if Rupnow deliberately targeted her victims, Barnes said, “We don’t know if there would be a reason to target a (substitute) teacher, in this case, who doesn’t have significant ties to the school.”

The tragedy has left the Abundant Life Christian School community in shock. The nondenominational school, serving prekindergarten through high school, has about 420 students.

Police continues to investigate the motives behind the Abundant Life Christian School shooting while the grieving community seeks answers and healing.