Crime
Remembering the Victims of the Abundant Life Christian School Shooting
Remembering the Victims of the Abundant Life Christian School Shooting
MADISON, Wis. – The Abundant Life Christian School community continues to mourn the tragic loss of two lives following the devastating shooting on Monday morning. Ninth grader Rubi Patricia Vergara and teacher Erin Michelle West were killed in the attack, the Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Wednesday.
Six others were injured, with two remaining hospitalized as of Wednesday. The remaining four have been discharged. Their identities have not been publicly disclosed.
Honoring Erin Michelle West
Erin Michelle West, 42, was a beloved teacher who lived in DeForest, Wisconsin. Known for her kindness and dedication, West worked as a substitute teacher for three years before becoming the school’s substitute coordinator.
Students and colleagues fondly remembered West’s caring nature. Angel Brube, a seventh grader who was present during the shooting, described her as “kind and caring” with a talent for communication.
Sophomore Mackynzie Wilson shared similar sentiments, recalling her teacher’s love for her family and students. “She was so excited to see her daughters grow up and what they were going to be and do with their lives,” Wilson said.
West’s warmth extended to everyone at the school. “She would have done anything for them,” Wilson added. “I just wish I could’ve gone back and given her a hug.”
Remembering Rubi Patricia Vergara
Rubi Patricia Vergara, 14, was a freshman with a bright artistic future. Her obituary described her as an “avid reader” who loved art, singing, and playing the keyboard in her family’s worship band.
Vergara’s love for animals was unmatched, as she shared a deep bond with her pets, Ginger the cat and Coco the dog.
Her funeral service is scheduled for Saturday in Madison, with burial to follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.
A Community United in Grief
The loss of these two cherished lives has left a lasting impact on the Abundant Life Christian School community. As the survivors heal and families cope with the tragedy, the memories of Erin Michelle West and Rubi Patricia Vergara remain a source of inspiration and love.
Tags: Madison Shooting, Abundant Life Christian School, Erin Michelle West, Rubi Patricia Vergara, Community Grief
Here’s what we know so far about the Charlie Kirk murder case, summarized in clear bullet points:
What’s Known About the Charlie Kirk Murder
- When & Where
- Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on September 10, 2025, at approximately 12:20 p.m. Mountain Time during a speaking event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. (Wikipedia)
- Event Details
- The event was the launch of his “American Comeback Tour.” He was at his “Prove Me Wrong” table, responding to questions from students. (Wikipedia)
- A student had just asked about the number of mass shootings by transgender individuals, and Kirk was answering that question when he was shot. (Wikipedia)
- Nature of the Attack
- The shooter fired a single long-range shot, hitting Kirk in the neck. The shot appeared to come from a rooftop nearby (reports put the distance at around 142–200 yards). (Wikipedia)
- Security
- About 3,000 people were present. Security consisted of six university police officers (some in plain clothes) plus Kirk’s private security. Observers have said security was relatively lax—no tickets were required and no metal detectors were used. (Wikipedia)
- Immediate Aftermath
- Two individuals were initially detained as persons of interest but were released after questioning, confirmed not to be the shooter. (Wikipedia)
- The shooter remains at large. Authorities have not released a name or motive yet. (The Washington Post)
- Investigation & Evidence
- The FBI and local law enforcement are leading the investigation. They’ve released photos and video of a person of interest and are asking the public for help. Over 7,000 tips have been received. (The Guardian)
- A $100,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the killer. (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
- A .30-06 caliber bolt-action rifle (Mauser system) was recovered in a nearby wooded area, wrapped in a towel. Forensic evidence such as shoe prints, palm prints, and cartridge casings are being analyzed. (New York Post)
- Legal & Political Response
- Utah authorities announced their intention to pursue the death penalty if the shooter is caught. (CBS News)
- President Trump announced that Charlie Kirk will be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. (People.com)
- The killing has sparked widespread national outrage, with both sides of the political spectrum condemning the violence—though rhetoric has been sharply divided. (The Guardian)
Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Sept 10, 2025, around 12:20 p.m. MT |
| Location | Utah Valley University, Orem, Utah |
| Victim | Charlie Kirk, age 31, conservative activist |
| Attack Type | Long-range shooting from rooftop using a bolt-action rifle |
| Security | Private security + university officers, criticized as minimal |
| Suspect Status | Shooter at large; no confirmed arrests |
| Investigation | FBI leading, released suspect images, offering $100K reward |
| Evidence | Recovery of rifle, forensic evidence collected |
| Legal Actions | Death penalty intended if perpetrator is found |
| Reactions | National outrage; Trump to honor Kirk’s legacy posthumously |