(It was originally reported that five people were dead. That information was inaccurately reported by the Madison Police Department. The story has been corrected to reflect that three people, including the teenaged shooter, died.)
A shooting at Abundant Life Christian School, a private school in Madison, WI left three people dead, including one juvenile, and six others injured Monday morning, authorities said.
Police responded to the school at 10:50 a.m. after reports of an active shooter. Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes confirmed multiple victims were suffering from gunshot wounds when officers arrived.
“This is something we all prepare for, but hope we don’t have to do,” Barnes said during a press conference. “This is a sad day for our community and our country.”
Officers discovered the suspect, identified as a juvenile believed to be a student at the school, dead in another part of the building. Authorities said they believe the suspect acted alone and there is no further threat to the community.
“This is what we teach in active shooter training: ‘Stop the killing, stop the dying and find out who’s doing this,’” Barnes said, referencing a department training held two weeks ago.
The victims include three fatalities, including the shooter and six injuries, with conditions ranging from minor to life-threatening. Several injured individuals were transported to area hospitals.
“My heart is heavy for my community. My heart is heavy for Madison,” Barnes said. “Every person in that building is a victim.”
Barnes urged the public to offer prayers for the school and its surrounding community. “I’m asking everyone to send their prayers, yet again, to a community. This time it’s my community,” he said.
Police are continuing to investigate the shooting, and additional details, including the identities of the victims, are expected to be released in the coming days.