MADISON — At least three people, including the suspected shooter, are dead and at least six others were hurt in a shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison on the morning of Monday, December 16, 2024.
Click here for developing news updates on the situation from WTMJ’s News team.
Leaders from across Wisconsin and the United States are reacting live to the news of this shooting. WTMJ has gathered statements and reactions below:
Wisconsin State Superintendent, Dr. Jill Underly issued the following statement:
“Our hearts are heavy with great sorrow as we mourn the senseless loss of life in yet another school shooting. No community should ever face the pain of losing children, teachers, or friends to violence – especially in our schools. Our schools are meant to be safe places.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder that we must do more to protect our children and our educators to ensure that such horrors never happen again. We will not rest until we find solutions that make our schools safe, and so our children feel secure. We owe it to every student, parent, and teacher to turn this great sense of grief that we are experiencing into action and build a future where senseless acts of violence are no longer a reality. The time for change is long past. Together, we will stand strong and demand the safety our children deserve.”
Dane County Executive Melissa Agard issued the following statement in the wake of the shooting:
“Today, our community is reeling from the heartbreaking and senseless tragedy at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison. My heart goes out to the victims, their families, the students, educators, and everyone affected by this unimaginable and unacceptable violence.
Dane County stands united in grief with the Abundant Life Christian School community. We are committed to supporting the school, its students, and their families during this devastating time, and will work closely with law enforcement and other first responders, mental health professionals, and community leaders to provide resources and care for those who need it most.
No community should ever have to endure such a tragedy. My administration will do everything in its power to provide assistance in the face of this devastating loss. To all those grieving, please know that you are not alone. Dane County stands with you, and we are here to support you in any way possible. I have been in communication with the Governor’s office as well as the Mayor of Madison’s office and we will continue to update the public as we learn more.”
National Response:
The following comments were issued by The White House: “The President has been briefed on the school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin. Senior White House officials are in touch with local counterparts in Madison to provide support as needed.”
