MADISON, Wis. — The father of a teenager involved in a deadly school shooting last December has been released from custody, following a court appearance earlier this month. Jeffrey Rupnow faced two felony charges: intentionally selling a dangerous weapon to a minor and contributing to the delinquency of a child.
Court documents reveal that Rupnow was arrested on May 8 and subsequently released after posting a $20,000 bond. During a hearing, a court commissioner ordered him to wear a GPS monitor and prohibited him from purchasing or possessing firearms. Additionally, he was instructed to avoid all contact with Abundant Life Christian School and stay away from specific areas in Madison.
The incident, which occurred during a study hall session, resulted in the tragic deaths of two individuals, with several others injured. Authorities allege that Rupnow disregarded serious warnings regarding his daughter, Natalie Rupnow, who committed the shooting before taking her own life. Prosecutors noted that the father had made firearms accessible to her despite her known mental health struggles and prior suicidal thoughts.
Further details indicate that Madison police had alerted Rupnow in June 2022 about concerning online behaviors exhibited by Natalie. Despite these notifications, he allegedly purchased weapons intended for her use. This case has reignited discussions about parental responsibility in the context of gun access for minors, especially when mental health issues are present.
Rupnow’s next court appearance is scheduled for June 9, as the legal proceedings continue to unfold. The community remains shaken by the events of that tragic day, prompting calls for stronger regulations surrounding firearm access to minors. The consequences of the shooting will likely resonate for families and friends as they seek healing in the aftermath.