MADISON, Wis. — The teenage student who lost her life in the shooting at Abundant Life Christian School (ALCS) in Madison has been identified as Rubi Patricia Vergara, 14.
Vergara's family says she was a freshman at the school, and that she loved reading, art, singing, and playing the keyboard.
She tragically lost her life along with a teacher, when 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow opened fire during a study hall on Monday morning, Dec. 16., according to the Madison Police Department (MPD).
Vergara was identified, along with the teacher, Erin M. West, 42, by The Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office on Wednesday.
Six others were injured in the shooting. Their names have not been released.
Vergara will be laid to rest on Saturday, according to an obituary from Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care.
Her family authorized the release of the obituary, according to Channel 3000. TMJ4 also spoke with Channel 3000 and confirmed its reporter spoke with the family.
We also called the funeral home, but it was closed. An answering service said it would relay our message to the director.
Her funeral will be streamed online for those wishing to pay their respects.
Meanwhile, Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes has not released a motive, calling it a "top priority" for his department. "Everyone was targeted in this incident," Barnes said. "And everyone was put in equal danger."
Neighbors from all walks of life came together outside the Wisconsin State Capitol Tuesday night to grieve and show their support for the victims.
The vigil was organized by the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County. Local, city, and state leaders shared remarks as dozens kept the victims in their thoughts.
How you can donate:
An emergency recovery fund has been established to support the Abundant Life community.
The fund, established by United Way of Dane County and the Boys and Girls Club, will provide immediate financial relief and support long-term recovery efforts. All proceeds will go directly to ALCS.
If you'd like to donate, you can do so directly here.
Resources:
A resource page for families in the Abundant Life community has been established by the City of Madison, which includes counseling and support services and information on how the public can help.
You can visit that page by clicking here.
It’s about time to watch on your time. Stream local news and weather 24/7 by searching for “TMJ4” on your device.
Available for download on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and more.
