Wisconsin Community Mourns Lives Lost in School Shooting
MILWAUKEE — A Wisconsin community is grieving the tragic loss of a student and a teacher killed earlier this week in a shooting at a private religious school. The incident at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community and the nation.
The victims have been identified as Rubi Patricia Vergara, 14, and Erin M. West, 42, according to the Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office. Both died at the scene of the shooting, which has left the school and its community reeling.
“Our hearts are heavy with these losses,” the school said in a statement.
Victim Profiles
Rubi Patricia Vergara, 14
Rubi, a freshman at Abundant Life Christian School and a lifelong student there since kindergarten, was remembered as an avid reader, artist, and musician. She loved singing and playing the keyboard for her family’s worship band, according to her obituary.
Described as someone who “shared a special bond” with her pets—a cat named Ginger and a dog named Coco—Rubi was often seen with a book in hand and was admired for her artistic and musical talents.
“Yet, it was Rubi’s love for Jesus that shined brightest,” the school shared in a statement. “She faithfully shared His love with others through volunteering and acts of kindness. She will be deeply missed by her teachers and fellow students.”
Rubi’s funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday at City Church in Madison, with visitation beginning at 9 a.m. The service will be livestreamed. She will be laid to rest at Roselawn Memorial Park.
Erin M. West, 42
Erin West, a dedicated educator from DeForest, served as the substitute teacher coordinator at Abundant Life Christian School. She had been part of the school community for three years as a substitute teacher before transitioning to a full-time role.
The school described Erin as someone who “brought her love for Jesus and people to our staff and school family, wrapped in a hug and topped with a smile.”
A graduate of Kennesaw State University in Georgia, Erin earned her degree in early education in 2005. In a statement, the university offered condolences to her loved ones, calling her loss “unimaginable.”
Erin’s friend, Jenny Matthews, reflected on their friendship in a heartfelt Facebook post, writing: “Words feel inadequate. A dear friend lost her life on Monday. Erin was a gift to us and a true blessing. I’ll always cherish the years of Bible studies, raising children, church volunteering, campfires, dinners, and prayers we shared.”
A memorial service for Erin will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Doxa Church in Madison and will also be livestreamed.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic loss of Rubi and Erin has left an indelible mark on the Abundant Life Christian School community. As friends, family, and neighbors gather to honor their lives, the pain of their absence is matched only by the love and light they brought to those around them.
“Our community is forever changed by this senseless act of violence,” the school said. “We grieve together, but we also celebrate the gifts Rubi and Erin were to us all.”
