Pastor Honors Beloved Teacher Lost In Tragic School Attack
The shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, last week claimed the lives of two victims, Erin West, a 42-year-old teacher, and 14-year-old student Rubi Patricia Vergara. West, who had been a beloved educator for four years, was remembered by Pastor Rob Warren of Doxa Church as a woman who “loved Jesus and loved people,” which he said was the reason she was in the classroom that day. West was known for her compassion, generosity, and faith, and was deeply valued by both her church and the school community. Warren, who was one of the first responders at the scene, also had to inform West’s family of her death.
The attack, carried out by 15-year-old Natalie “Samantha” Rupnow, occurred during a regular snack break at the school and lasted for eight minutes. Two other students were critically injured in the shooting, and the community was left reeling. Barbara Wiers, the school’s communications director, acknowledged the deep grief felt by the school community, but expressed hope that they would heal, saying that “He will turn our mourning into joy again.”
West’s contributions to the school were celebrated in a statement from Abundant Life Christian School, which described her as a dedicated educator who served with “grace, humor, wisdom, and the love of Jesus.” The loss of both West and Vergara was deeply felt, and the school extended condolences to their families. Vergara, an avid reader who loved art and music, was described as a kind and gentle person, greatly impacting her peers and family.
Funeral services for West and Vergara have been scheduled, with West’s service to be held at Doxa Church in Madison and Vergara’s at City Church. In a related development, authorities detained Alexander Paffendorf, a 20-year-old from California, in connection with the shooting. He is accused of communicating with Rupnow and planning a second attack. The FBI raided his home, seizing firearms and ammunition as part of the ongoing investigation.