OAN Staff Abril Elfi 10:47 AM – Monday, December 16, 2024
UPDATE- 12/16- 11:25 a.m.: The police have corrected their previous report and revised the death toll to three individuals instead of five. However, during a press conference earlier today, Police Chief Shon Barnes stated that five individuals had been killed in this incident.
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Authorities have confirmed that at least three individuals have died, including a juvenile suspect, and at least six others have been transported to a hospital following a shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin.
Barnes described today as a “tragic day,” not only for the local community but for the nation, following the shooting earlier on Monday.
“Once again, a police chief is holding a press conference to discuss violence in our community, particularly in a place that is considered sacred to many, including myself, as an advocate for education and a parent with children in schools,” Barnes remarked.
According to Chief Barnes, officers found multiple victims with gunshot wounds after arriving at the scene of an active shooter incident reported at 10:57 a.m.
Reports indicate that the shooter was a student of the school, as noted by NBC News.
Chief Barnes stated that at least three individuals have been taken to local hospitals for treatment, following life-saving measures performed by police and emergency responders on those injured.
Barnes did not disclose how many of the deceased were students or staff members. The police’s incident report indicated that injuries varied from minor to life-threatening.
“I am not going to release any information regarding the identities of the victims, whether they are students, staff, or parents, until we can properly notify their families,” stated Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes.
🚨BREAKING🚨 Devastating news.
Tragic shooting at a school in Madison, Wisconsin. During the press briefing, it was indicated that 5 people are dead, including the juvenile shooter, and 5 others are injured at Abundant Life Christian School. pic.twitter.com/KqOOawIaq2
Officials informed CNN that law enforcement is currently in the process of securing the school premises. They have also announced that several main roads nearby have been closed, and residents are advised to steer clear of the area.
As per their official website, Abundant Life Christian School is a K-12 institution with approximately 390 students enrolled.
President Joe Biden has been briefed about the incident, as reported by a White House spokesperson.
“The President has been informed regarding the school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin. Senior White House officials are in communication with local authorities in Madison to coordinate necessary support,” stated senior deputy press secretary Emilie Simons.
In response to the shooting, Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) expressed his condolences on social media.
“My heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to all the victims of this tragedy at Abundant Life Christian School. I will be diligently monitoring the situation,” Johnson posted.
My heartfelt condolences and prayers for all the victims of the tragedy at Abundant Life Christian School. I will continue to closely monitor the situation. https://t.co/P2pMJmtsPW
