The motive behind a deadly shooting at a Christian school in Wisconsin appears to stem from “a mix of things”, authorities said on Tuesday.
A teacher and student were killed and a number of other others wounded within the shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison. An additional six people were injured, two critically.
The shooter was named by police as 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow who died on the scene from a self-inflicted gun shot wound. She was a student at the varsity.Â
Addressing a news conference, Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes said they were still working to determine a motive.Â
“We’re taking a look at multiple aspects, including possible bullying,” he said. “Identifying a motive is our top priority, but presently, it appears the motive involves a mix of things.”
The attack unfolded in a mixed grade study hall just before 11am on Monday morning. Police, who were attending training just just a few miles away, arrived on the scene inside minutes.
The police are investigating Rupnow’s cellphone and online activity, and are looking into possible links between the teenager and an apparent manifesto circulating online.Â
Police said Rupnow used a pistol to perform the shooting, but haven’t confirmed how she got here to have possession of the gun.Â
Mr Barnes said that Rupnow’s parents have been cooperating with investigators. Questions have been raised about whether or not they could also be held legally accountable for the shooting as has happened in other states.Â
“We also want to take a look at if the parents could have been negligent. And that is an issue that we’ll need to answer with our district attorney’s office. But presently, that doesn’t look like the case,” Mr Barnes told CNN.
The school has asked for prayers and expressed gratitude to law enforcement: “We are [so] grateful to the totality of the law enforcement community who’ve been involved in helping us. They have been amazing! We pray God protects and provides for each as they perform their high calling of public service.”
