MADISON, Wisconsin – A California man has been detained on suspicion of collaborating with the 15-year-old girl who carried out a deadly school shooting at a Christian school in Wisconsin earlier this week.
Details of the Case
The man, identified as 20-year-old Alexander Paffendorf from Carlsbad, California, was taken into custody late Tuesday by FBI agents. According to court documents, Paffendorf had been in contact with Natalie “Samantha” Rupnow, who fatally shot two people and wounded six others at Abundant Life Christian School on Monday before dying of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Authorities stated that Paffendorf and Rupnow had been “plotting a mass shooting,” with Paffendorf reportedly telling Rupnow he planned to arm himself with explosives and a gun to target a government building. FBI agents allegedly discovered and reviewed the incriminating messages exchanged between the two.
FBI and Law Enforcement Collaboration
The investigation is being led by the Madison Police Department, with support from FBI field offices in San Diego and Milwaukee and the Carlsbad Police Department.
“At this time, we are not aware of any ongoing threats associated with this matter in Wisconsin or California,” the FBI stated.
The San Diego County Superior Court granted an order requiring Paffendorf to surrender all firearms, ammunition, and magazines. It remains unclear if Paffendorf retained legal representation and was not available for immediate comment.
Reactions from Neighbors
Neighbors in Carlsbad expressed shock over the incident. Patricia Sousa, who lives across the street from Paffendorf, said, “It’s a quiet neighborhood, and nothing ever happens here. We’re on a cul-de-sac. It’s a real quiet area.”
Bradley Skall, another neighbor, recalled hearing police activity Tuesday night but did not investigate further. “We’ve been scared, all of us,” he said. “I have a dog, and I walk my dog, and now I’m scared to go outside.”
Wisconsin Community Mourns
Meanwhile, in Wisconsin, the community continues to grapple with the tragic loss. Police have identified the victims as Rubi P. Vergara, 14, and Erin M. West, 42. Among the six injured, two students remain in critical condition with life-threatening injuries, according to Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes.
On Wednesday evening, 75 people gathered at Lighthouse Church in Madison to pray for the family of a teen who was critically wounded in the shooting. The senior pastor, Marcio Sierra Jr., led the congregation in prayer, emphasizing the need for a miracle.
The service featured heartfelt prayers, many of them in Spanish, and reflections on faith, resilience, and hope. Congregants described the injured teen as a respectful and kind young man who brought warmth to his church community.
The gathering ended with the gospel song “Made a Way” by Travis Greene, as attendees raised their hands in hope and faith.
A Broader Concern
This case underscores the growing concerns around online interactions leading to real-world violence. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies highlights the critical importance of early detection and intervention in preventing further tragedies.
Authorities continue to investigate the connection between Paffendorf and Rupnow, as well as the broader implications of their alleged plot. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims during these difficult times.
