After the Wisconsin shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, the names of the fatal victims became public. One of them was Erin Michelle West, 42, a full-time in-house substitute teacher who was subbing for another teacher at ALCS who was on vacation, according to a survivor's parent.
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Lyndsay O'Connor, whose daughter was at ALCS at the time of the shooting, talked with Wisconsin Right Now. Among many heartbreaking details, she shared how West died by protecting her class. According to O'Connor, it was a "planned absence," which led to West being at the school, subbing for the teacher who was on vacation.
"The teacher died protecting her class. Many more lives could have been taken. She (Rupnow) sent off multiple rounds," O'Connor told the outlet. "It sounds like the brave substitute teacher who fought Natalie Rupnow stood in the gap for the rest of the kids."
Abundant Life Christian School would later share a statement with NBC News, talking about Erin West. "ALCS is a better school for the work of Erin West. She brought her love of Jesus and love of people to our staff and school family all wrapped in a hug and topped with a smile," the statement reads. The school described West as graceful, humorous, wise, and someone who wad the "love of Jesus." West made use of these traits through her treatment of ALCS teachers and students.
"Her loss is a painful and deep one and she will be greatly missed not just among our staff, but our entire ALCS family," the statement concluded.
Fatal Victims, Identified
Unfortunately, West was not the only fatal victim of the shooting. Student Rubi Vergara, a ninth grader, also died at ALCS on Monday, December 16, at the hands of Natalie Rupnow. The school also issued a statement, lovingly talking about Vergara.
"Her gentle, loving, and kind heart was reflected in her smile. Rubi was a blessing to her class and our school. She was not only a good friend, but a great big sister," the school said. "Often seen with a book in hand, she had a gift for art and music. Yet, it was Rubi's love for Jesus that shined brightest and she shared His love with others by volunteering faithfully."
Authorities continue to investigate the shooter. According to them, it appears that Rupnow was in communication with a California man, in an attempt to carry out a coordinated attack.
