At least five killed in mass shooting at Christian private school

Five people have been killed in a Christian school shooting – including a young gunman.

Gunfire broke out at Abundant Life Christian School in Wisconsin, shortly before 11am on Monday, according to the Madison Police Department.

Police believe the shooter, who was a juvenile, was a student at the school in Madison.

‘Officers located a juvenile who they believe was responsible for this deceased in the building,’ said police Chief Shon Barnes.

He said that ‘today is a sad, sad day’.

‘Every person in that building is a victim and will be a victim forever. These types of traumas don’t go away,’ Barnes said.

‘Right now my heart is heavy for my community. My heart is heavy for Madison.’

Barnes declined to immediately disclose whether the victims were students, teachers or staff, pending notification to their families.

Emergency vehicles parked outside the Abundant Life Christian School after a shooting on Monday (Picture: AP)

The school at the state capital serves roughly 390 students from kindergarten through high school, its website states.

‘This remains an active and ongoing investigation,’ stated Madison police.

‘More information will be released as it is available. We currently need people to avoid the area.’

Roads near the 4900 block of Buckeye Road were closed amid an investigation.

A shooting reportedly broke out at Abundant Life Christian School just before 11am on Monday (Picture: CNN)

Governor Tony Evers stated: ‘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.’

A spokesperson for the Madison Metropolitan School District said thatElvehjem Elementary School, Sennett Middle School and La Follette High School were placed on secure hold due following reports of the shooting at Abundant Life.

Authorities soon said that there were not other threats to schools and the community.

Emma Davis