MADISON, Wis. — The father of a teenage girl who opened fire at a local school late last year has been arrested on multiple felony charges. Jeffrey Rupnow was taken into custody early Thursday amid an ongoing investigation into the December shooting that left two dead and several others injured.
Rupnow, 47, faces charges of contributing to the delinquency of a child and two counts of providing a dangerous weapon to a minor, resulting in death. This arrest comes approximately five months after his daughter, Natalie Rupnow, 15, used guns reportedly obtained from her father to kill a classmate, Rubi Vergara, and teacher Erin West at Abundant Life Christian School before taking her own life.
Despite a gun safe reportedly located in the family home, police indicated that it did not prevent Natalie from accessing the firearms. Authorities have been thorough in their investigation, which involved reviewing evidence and interviewing several individuals connected to the case.
At a news conference, Madison’s acting police chief, John Patterson, discussed the findings, noting that a manifesto discovered in Natalie’s bedroom revealed her fascination with weapons and an interest in school shootings. The investigation also uncovered her communication with people online about these topics.
Officers recovered two legally purchased firearms during their investigation, which were traced back to Jeffrey Rupnow. Officers determined that prior to the tragic events of December 16, 2024, Natalie had expressed a desire to visit shooting ranges, a curiosity she had developed during earlier visits where her father allowed her to handle a gun.
At the time of the incident, Natalie reportedly overslept and took a rideshare service to school. After arriving, she accessed various parts of the building before opening fire on her classmates and teachers. Six other students were injured in the shooting, and one remains hospitalized.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, local leaders emphasized the long road to recovery for those affected. Madison’s mayor remarked on the profound impact the shooting has had on the community, highlighting the challenges of restoring a sense of normalcy in the wake of such violence.
Rupnow is expected to make his first court appearance on Friday, where he will face the felony charges. Meanwhile, the investigation continues as authorities seek further clarity on the circumstances surrounding the tragic events.