Madison, Wisconsin – A father was taken into custody early Thursday, facing multiple felony charges related to his teenage daughter, who was involved in a tragic school shooting last year. Jeffrey Rupnow, 42, was arrested around 3:45 a.m., according to officials from the Madison Police Department.
Rupnow is charged with contributing to the delinquency of a child, along with two counts of providing a dangerous weapon to a minor that subsequently led to fatalities. All three charges are classified as felonies. Authorities revealed that Rupnow legally acquired the firearm used in the deadly incident at the Abundant Life Christian School and that his 15-year-old daughter had regular access to a gun safe containing multiple weapons at their home.
Madison Police Lieutenant Matt Nordquist confirmed that Rupnow has been cooperative during the investigation into the incident. “He has been forthcoming with information,” Nordquist stated during a press conference.
The tragic shooting occurred on December 16, 2024, when Natalie Rupnow killed two individuals and injured at least six others inside the school. Following the attack, she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. While police have indicated there were multiple contributing factors to the shooting, they have not disclosed details regarding her motivations.
Investigators noted that Natalie had exhibited signs of fascination with mass violence and had maintained a journal filled with gruesome drawings and videos. Online activity suggested a troubling obsession with school shootings and violent acts, leading authorities to believe her mindset may have been influenced by various external factors.
In a related incident, a restraining order was issued against Alexander Paffendorf, a California man who had communicated with Natalie about potential violent acts against government facilities. Although he has not been charged with any crime, his association with the case raised significant concerns.
The victims of the school shooting were later identified as Erin West, a 42-year-old teacher, and 14-year-old Rubi Vergara. The community has struggled to come to terms with the tragedy, with one student still hospitalized nearly five months after the incident.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on accountability and prevention measures to address firearm access among minors. The case raises ongoing questions about parental responsibility in the context of youth violence, particularly in relation to gun safety and mental health issues.
This incident remains a painful reminder of the impact of gun violence on communities, underscoring the necessity for dialogue on how to protect students and ensure safety in schools across the nation.