Three confirmed dead in Wisconsin school shooting with more injured

A devastating shooting at a private Christian school in America has left two people dead, as well as the shooter, just as the school was preparing for the Christmas break.

Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes reported that others were injured at Abundant Life Christian School, in the state of Wisconsin, which serves around 390 students.

Initial reports had indicated a higher death toll, but police later clarified that five fatalities were not correct.

Madison police identified the suspected shooter as a student from the school and stated that seven people sustained injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening. "Today is a sad, sad day, not only for Madison but for our entire country," Barnes said during a press briefing.

He added that officers who responded to the call before 11am on Monday did not discharge their weapons upon entering the school and suggested that the shooter took their own life. "They found the person responsible who was down, deceased," he explained.

The weapon used in the attack is believed to be a 9mm pistol, according to an anonymous law enforcement official who spoke to The Associated Press but was not authorised to discuss details of the investigation. As the area surrounding the school was cordoned off, federal agents joined local forces to support the response efforts.

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers expressed his condolences and called for prayers for the school community. "We are praying for the kids, educators, and entire Abundant Life school community as we await more information and are grateful for the first responders who are working quickly to respond," he stated.

The White House released a statement confirming that President Joe Biden has been briefed on the recent shooting, with officials maintaining close contact with local authorities to offer assistance. Abundant Life Christian School, where the incident occurred, is known for being nondenominational.

Local resident and City Church attendee John Diaz De Leon recounted to WMTV-TV the overwhelming sound of sirens as law enforcement arrived on the scene, saying, "I didn’t know there were that many squad cars in Madison. We saw a few guys with long guns. They went into the school with a dog," and added, "Later on I saw groups of kids coming out of the school into the church sanctuary."

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