The tragic shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, on Monday morning claimed the lives of two beloved members of the community.
Rubi Patricia Vergara, a 14-year-old freshman full of artistic promise, and Erin Michelle West, a 42-year-old teacher described as a pillar of love and faith. Their loss has left the community heartbroken and in mourning... Continue reading here ▶
Rubi Patricia Vergara: A Young Artist with a Gentle Soul
Rubi Vergara was known for her vibrant creativity and her love for music and art. A freshman at Abundant Life, she came from a big, close-knit family.
Rubi sang and played the keyboard in her family’s worship band and was always seen with a book in hand. Her gentle and kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
“Rubi was a blessing to her class and our school,” Abundant Life said in a statement. “Her love for Jesus shined brightest, and she shared His love with others through her volunteer work.”
During her funeral service on Saturday, her uncle, Andy Remus, expressed gratitude to the school, local law enforcement, and Wisconsin officials for their support. He also shared a message of forgiveness toward the family of the shooter, 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow, who died after the attack.
“We hold no bitterness or unforgiveness,” Remus said. “Somehow this precious child of God lost her way.”
Rubi’s love extended beyond art and music. She had a special bond with her pets, Ginger the cat and Coco the dog. Her teachers and classmates remember her as a good friend, a caring sister, and a devoted student who will be deeply missed.
Erin Michelle West: A Teacher Who Loved and Served
Erin West was a substitute teaching coordinator at Abundant Life Christian School and a beloved member of the community.
Known for her warmth, humor, and unwavering faith, Erin brought a unique energy to her role, uplifting both students and staff.
“ALCS is a better school because of Erin West,” the school said in a statement. “She served with grace, wisdom, and, most importantly, the love of Jesus.”
Erin’s love for her students mirrored the love she had for her own family. A devoted wife to her husband, Jack, and mother to three daughters, Emery, Laurel, and Adleigh, she cherished camping trips and spending time with her girls.
“She was so excited to see her daughters grow up and discover their paths,” said sophomore Mackynzie Wilson. “Her love for her children extended to everyone at our school. She would have done anything for us.”
Erin’s funeral will be held on Monday at Doxa Church, where she also served in ministry. Her legacy of kindness, care, and faith lives on in the countless lives she touched.
Community in Mourning
The shooting also injured six others, two of whom remain hospitalized. One of the injured students, identified only as Samy, is in critical condition. His family has asked for prayers and privacy during this difficult time.
“They know Samy is in God’s hands,” said Pastor Marcio Sierra Jr. of Lighthouse Church. “They are asking for a miracle.”
Flags across Wisconsin were lowered to half-staff in honor of the victims, and local businesses have stepped in to support the grieving families. A funeral home donated services for Rubi’s family, and a cemetery provided her burial plot.
While the pain of this tragedy is immense, the community has come together to honor the lives of Rubi and Erin, remembering their love, faith, and the impact they had on those around them. Both will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
As Andy Remus said during Rubi’s funeral, “Rubi and Erin were lights in this world. Let us carry their light forward.”
