MADISON, Wis. — Police have arrested Jeffrey Rupnow, the father of a teenage girl who fatally shot two individuals at a local Christian school in December. The arrest occurred around 3:45 a.m. Thursday, and Rupnow, 42, faces multiple felony charges related to the tragic incident.
Authorities have charged Rupnow with contributing to the delinquency of a child and two counts of providing a dangerous weapon to a minor that resulted in death. Notably, an alias, Rupnow, was revealed; his actual surname is Tuttle, according to records from the Department of Justice.
In December, his daughter, Natalie Rupnow, opened fire at Abundant Life Christian School, killing 14-year-old Rubi Vergara and 42-year-old teacher Erin West before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Six other students were injured in the incident, with one still hospitalized.
Documented evidence from the ongoing investigation shows that Natalie expressed her intentions in a manifesto, claiming she manipulated her father into buying firearms. Court records indicate that investigators interviewed Rupnow, who mentioned that he and his daughter fired guns together two years prior. He stated that Natalie had become increasingly interested in shooting afterward, regularly asking to visit shooting ranges.
Investigators revealed at a Thursday press conference that Natalie had an obsession with weapons and school shootings, frequently discussing them online with individuals globally. Two firearms were found at the shooting scene, both legally purchased by Jeffrey Rupnow. Further searches of the family home uncovered additional weapons.
On the day of the shooting, Natalie reportedly overslept and took a rideshare to the school. According to police, her movements included a stop at the main office, a locker, and a restroom before she ascended to a higher floor and initiated her attack, which took place on December 16, 2024.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this violence, Madison’s acting police Chief John Patterson emphasized the thoroughness of their investigation and the ongoing challenges faced by the affected families. The emotional impact of such incidents lingers, with community leaders expressing hope for healing and support for those grieving.
Jeffrey Rupnow is scheduled to appear in court for the first time on Friday, facing the serious allegations stemming from this heartbreaking case.