The Madison Police Department is refraining from releasing identifying information about the shooter who killed three and wounded several others at Abundant Life Christian School (ALCS) in Madison, Wisconsin, on Monday morning.
During a press conference, Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes confirmed the shooter was a “teenage student who attended the school,” but added that authorities would not release the age, gender, or further identifying details at this time.
“As difficult as today is, that’s still someone’s child that’s gone. That’s still someone that has to deal with what happened today. So we just want to ensure as much cooperation as we can,” Barnes said. He urged the community for patience, explaining that full details would be released once the investigation concludes without compromising safety or confidentiality.
Shortly after the press conference, a law enforcement official told CNN that the shooter was identified as a female student.
The Incident and Immediate Response
The shooting resulted in the deaths of a teacher and a teenage student while at least seven others were injured. Responding officers located the shooter, who was found dead at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police confirmed the shooter used a handgun and that no shots were fired by law enforcement after their arrival.
The wounded received immediate medical assistance from responding officers, while authorities worked to stabilize the scene. Police initially reported that five people, including the shooter, had been killed, but they later corrected the information, saying it was “erroneously shared.”
Shooter’s Family Cooperating with Authorities
Chief Barnes noted that police have already contacted the shooter’s family, who are fully cooperating with the investigation. Officials have urged anyone struggling with mental health challenges following the tragedy to contact the suicide and crisis hotline by dialing 988.
A Community in Mourning
The shooting occurred during the final week of classes before Christmas break at Abundant Life Christian School (ALCS), a small private school offering education for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Following the incident, ALCS posted on Facebook:
“Prayers Requested! Today, we had an active shooter incident at ALCS. We are in the midst of following up. We will share information as we are able. Please pray for our Challenger Family.”
Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues, the Madison community is reeling from the tragic loss of life and the injuries sustained in the attack. Authorities have promised transparency once the situation stabilizes, while schools, families, and the broader community grapple with the emotional toll of the incident.
For now, police are focused on uncovering the motive, providing support to victims, and ensuring the confidentiality of those affected during this difficult time.