Wisconsin School Shooter Identified As 15-Year-Old Natalie Rupnow As Alleged Manifesto Emerges

Warning: This article discusses suicide and violence, which some readers may find distressing.

Authorities have identified the suspect in a devastating school shooting that occurred at a private Christian school in Wisconsin. Reports of an alleged "manifesto" linked to the incident have surfaced online, adding further concern to the case.

Natalie "Samantha" Rupnow, a 15-year-old student, allegedly injured six people and killed two during the shooting spree at Abundant Life Christian School on Monday, December 16. Some of the injured victims remain in critical condition and are currently being treated in local hospitals.

The teenager reportedly brought a handgun onto the school campus and opened fire inside a study hall, targeting students from various grades.

A second-grade student was able to call 911 at approximately 11:00 a.m., according to police reports.

Law enforcement officers arrived at the scene within minutes, where they found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Rupnow was also discovered on-site but later died from her injuries.

During a press briefing on Monday evening, Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes confirmed that Rupnow, who reportedly preferred to be called "Samantha," had been enrolled as a student at the school.

Chief Barnes stated that initial evidence points to Rupnow dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound while being transported to the hospital.

Shortly after the incident, a document claimed to be Rupnow’s "manifesto" began circulating on social media. While its authenticity remains unverified, it has generated widespread discussion and concern.

A Madison city bus transported children to their parents after the ordeal Andy Manis/Getty Images

The six-page document, reportedly titled "War Against Humanity," was allegedly posted by someone claiming to have been Rupnow’s online boyfriend.

However, Chief Barnes emphasized that authorities are still investigating. He said: "We're certainly aware that it's been posted and the person who posted it, alleged to have a connection with the victim."

Chief Barnes further noted that the FBI has been brought in to assist with the investigation. Police are actively working to uncover Rupnow’s possible motives for the attack.

Investigators have interviewed the suspect’s parents, who are fully cooperating, and they are conducting a thorough search of the family’s home for additional evidence.

Barnes reiterated that the investigation is ongoing as authorities strive to learn more about the tragic incident.

Officials believe Rupnow used a 9mm handgun during the attack. Police confirmed that a weapon matching that description was recovered from the scene.

Authorities have yet to publicly identify the two victims who lost their lives during the incident.

Among the six injured, two remain in critical condition with life-threatening injuries. The remaining four have non-life-threatening wounds, and two have since been released from the hospital in stable condition.

Chief of Madison Police Shon Barnes said officers have not been able to determine the authenticity of the alleged manifesto Scott Olson/Getty Images

Chief Barnes described the shooting as a heartbreaking tragedy, calling it "a sad day for our community and for our country."

President Joe Biden also addressed the incident, describing it as "shocking and unconscionable." He urged Congress to take immediate action to address the ongoing crisis of gun violence in the United States.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or experiencing a mental health crisis, support is available. Contact Mental Health America by calling or texting 988, or visit 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741 for immediate assistance.