In May 2025, Madison, Wisconsin, authorities arrested **Jeffrey Rupnow**, the father of 15‑year‑old Natalie Rupnow, who killed two individuals in a December 2024 shooting at Abundant Life Christian School. Police charged Rupnow with two felony counts of providing a dangerous weapon to a minor resulting in death, and one count of contributing to the delinquency of a child.
Natalie entered the school on December 16, 2024, and opened fire in a study hall, fatally shooting 42‑year‑old teacher Erin West and 14‑year‑old student Rubi Vergara. Six others were injured before Natalie died by a self‑inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators stated that Rupnow legally purchased two semi‑automatic pistols—a 9 mm Glock and a .22‑caliber Sig Sauer—which were recovered on site. One of the firearms had been gifted to Natalie in December 2023.
Court records and police statements revealed disturbing details: Natalie drafted a six‑page manifesto titled “War Against Humanity,” criticized humanity, described her father as “stupid,” and meticulously planned the attack using a cardboard replica of the school. Police also uncovered maps, online communications praising past shooters, and a bag containing the guns, extra magazines, and ammunition.
Rupnow admitted that teaching his daughter firearm safety may have been his “biggest mistake” and acknowledged that she had regular access to his gun safe—its code based on his Social Security number reversed. He reportedly took Natalie shooting two years prior to bond with her, but did not anticipate the interest would “snowball”.
During a May news conference, Madison Police Acting Chief John Patterson commended the thorough and lengthy investigation. Rupnow appeared cooperative, with his initial court hearing scheduled for the following day.
This arrest is part of a growing legal trend holding parents accountable for enabling school shootings. Similar cases in Michigan, Georgia, and Illinois have resulted in charges against parents who provided their children with weapons used in school attacks.
