Janice R. Andrews
MADISON, Wis. — A 15-year-old girl accused of killing two people and injuring six others at a private Christian school in Madison, Wisconsin, had a troubled family background marked by divorces, custody disputes, and court-mandated mediations, according to court records obtained by NBC News.
Natalie Rupnow, also known as Samantha, carried out the attack during a study hall at Abundant Life Christian School on Monday. She fatally shot teacher Erin M. West, 42, and student Rubi P. Vergara, 14, before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to police.
Family Conflicts and Custody Challenges
Court documents paint a picture of instability in Natalie’s home life. Her parents, Jeff and Mellissa Rupnow, married in 2011 and divorced three years later. During their first separation, Natalie primarily lived with her mother.
The couple remarried in 2017 but divorced again in 2020, finalizing their separation in 2021. Following the second divorce, custody arrangements were modified to allow Natalie to split her time equally between her parents’ homes. These transitions often involved frequent moves and ongoing therapy.
In 2022, unresolved disputes led the parents back to court. Mediation sessions ultimately granted Jeff primary custody, with Natalie’s therapist providing input on her weekend placements. Despite the court’s efforts to stabilize her living situation, challenges persisted.
While the court noted a “generally positive” co-parenting relationship, issues like missed mandatory sessions by Mellissa delayed progress. Both parents agreed to prioritize Natalie’s therapy, but frequent disagreements required ongoing court involvement.
The Shooting and Federal Inquiry
On Monday, Natalie entered the school armed, killing two individuals and wounding six others. Two of the injured students remain hospitalized in critical condition, while the other four have been treated and released.
The FBI is also investigating Natalie’s connection to Alexander Paffendorf, a 20-year-old detained in California. Authorities allege Paffendorf exchanged messages with Natalie, discussing plans to use explosives and target a government building. Though the FBI has not disclosed specifics, Paffendorf has been ordered to surrender his firearms.
Community Struggles to Cope
The Madison community is reeling from the tragic events. Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes emphasized that investigators are still working to determine a motive, citing a blend of possible factors influencing Natalie’s actions.
“Identifying a motive is our highest priority,” Barnes stated. “At this stage, it seems to involve a combination of circumstances.”
Trish Kilpin, head of Wisconsin’s Office of School Safety, pointed to the importance of understanding targeted violence. “These acts often stem from grievances,” Kilpin said. “Perpetrators frequently study past incidents, which makes prevention critical.”
A neighbor of Jeff Rupnow described him as a kind and helpful individual, expressing shock over the tragedy. “It’s horrifying for everyone, especially the families at the school,” the neighbor said, speaking anonymously out of concern for privacy.
The Need for Prevention
As authorities continue their investigation, experts stress the importance of recognizing warning signs and addressing underlying issues. Natalie’s turbulent upbringing, shaped by instability and unresolved conflicts, highlights the challenges many young people face in similar circumstances.
Law enforcement and school safety advocates are urging communities to prioritize violence prevention by fostering communication, supporting mental health needs, and intervening at early warning signs.
While questions about Natalie’s motivations remain, the tragic events at Abundant Life Christian School are a sobering reminder of the urgent need to prevent violence and provide support for individuals in crisis.
