14-Year-Old Rubi Patricia Vergara and 42-Year-Old Erin West Featured on One America News Network
OAN Staff Brooke Mallory
3:08 PM – Thursday, December 19, 2024
The two individuals who tragically lost their lives in the Abundant Life Christian School shooting in Wisconsin were Erin West, a 42-year-old substitute teacher, and Rubi Vergara, a 14-year-old freshman student.
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The shooter, identified as Natalie “Samantha” Rupnow, a 15-year-old student, opened fire inside the Madison private Christian school on Monday morning, targeting the two women before taking her own life.
As reported by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, referencing an obituary, Vergara “had a close bond with her cherished pets,” including a dog and cat, and was passionate about singing and playing piano in her family’s worship band. An avid reader, she also had a strong appreciation for the arts.
The obituary for the teen expressed that her parents, brother, and other family members left behind will “deeply miss” her.
A parent who spoke to the media shared that Ms. West was subbing for a teacher on vacation.
“The teacher died while protecting her students,” remarked Lyndsay O’Connor, whose children attend the school. “She potentially saved many more lives. Rupnow fired multiple shots.”
Ms. West’s obituary has also been released.
“Erin [West] cherished moments like family camping trips, supporting school sports, contributing to Doxa Church, and spending quality time with her daughters and extended family. Erin is survived by her husband, Jack; her three daughters, Emery, Laurel, and Adleigh; her parents, Teresa and Larry; her sister, Jennifer (Glenn) Bruce; friend, Hanna Hipp; and Pastor Rob Warren,” her obituary stated.
Fifteen-year-old Rupnow began her shooting spree in a classroom during study hall, injuring five other students—two of whom sustained severe injuries and were hospitalized—along with the substitute teacher, West, before taking her own life.
Documents obtained by the Washington Post revealed that Rupnow had been undergoing therapy due to familial issues prior to the tragic event.
The article also noted that she is one of only nine female perpetrators of school shootings since 1999, with investigators continuing to explore her motives.
“We may never truly understand her mindset that day, but we will strive to provide as much information as we can to the public,” stated Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes.
A funeral home overseeing Vergara’s arrangements has announced that her celebration of life will take place at a Madison church on Saturday, with a livestream option available for those unable to attend.
A ceremony to honor West, the brave substitute teacher, is scheduled for December 23rd at noon at Doxa Church, located at 2700 Novation Parkway, Madison. The church will welcome visitors on Monday from 10 a.m. until the conclusion of the service, as noted in her obituary.
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