OAN Staff Abril Elfi 10:47 AM – Monday, December 16, 2024
UPDATE- 12/16- 11:25 a.m.: Authorities have revised their previous report, lowering the death toll from five to three individuals. During a press conference today, Police Chief Shon Barnes had initially stated that five fatalities occurred in the incident.
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Authorities have confirmed that at least three lives were lost, including a juvenile suspect, with at least six others hospitalized after a shooting incident at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin.
Barnes described today as a “tragic day,” not just for the local community but for the entire nation following the shooting on Monday.
“Once again, we have a police chief addressing the community about violence, particularly in one of our most valued places – our schools, where many of us hold dear,” Barnes stated.
Chief Barnes mentioned that officers arrived to find multiple victims of gunfire after responding to an active shooter report at 10:57 a.m.
The shooter is believed to be a student at the school, according to NBC News.
Chief Barnes noted that at least three individuals were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment after emergency personnel attempted to save those injured.
Barnes did not confirm how many of the deceased were students or staff members. The police department’s incident webpage indicated that injuries “vary from minor to life-threatening.”
“I cannot provide details about the identities of the victims, whether they are students, staff, or parents, as we need to notify their families first,” said Chief Shon Barnes of Madison Police.
🚨BREAKING🚨 Heartbreaking.
Madison, Wisconsin school shooting. During presser – the update came that 5 people are dead, including juvenile shooter and 5 are injured at Abundant Life Christian School. pic.twitter.com/KqOOawIaq2
Officials informed CNN that law enforcement is currently in the process of clearing the school. They also reported that several major roads in the area have been closed, and residents are advised to steer clear of the vicinity.
According to its website, Abundant Life Christian School is a K-12 institution catering to approximately 390 students.
The White House has stated that President Joe Biden has been informed about the situation.
“The President has been updated on the school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin. Senior officials at the White House are coordinating with local authorities in Madison to provide any necessary assistance,” said senior deputy press secretary Emilie Simons.
Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) also addressed the situation in a post on X following the reports of the shooting and multiple injuries.
“My heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to all the victims of the tragedy at Abundant Life Christian School,” Johnson stated. “I will continue to monitor the developments closely.”
My sincere 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
