A prom in Antigo, Wisc., turned violent and bloody Saturday when 18-year-old Jakob E. Wagner reportedly opened fire on two students as they were leaving the school around 11 p.m. Police promptly responded to the attack, shooting down the gunman and ending what could have been yet another tragic school shooting.
Wagner's victims, a male and a female, whose identities remain unknown, were both taken to the Aspirus Langdale Hospital, where they received treatment for their injuries. The female was allegedly treated and sent home, while the male underwent surgery. The male victim's injuries, however, were not life-threatening.
Wagner initiated the attack using a high-powered rifle. After officers became aware of the ongoing attack, they immediately responded, with one of the officers managing to shoot down the attacker. It was found that Wagner also had a large ammunition clip.
The attacker was also taken to the hospital after being gunned down, though he eventually died of his wounds.
Eric Roller, the chief of police in Antigo, described the events that transpired Saturday night.
"Officers were in the parking lot patrolling the activities and heard the shots and an officer immediately fired upon the shooter, stopping the threat," he said.
The school district has announced a statement about the incident, praising the police officers for their quick and appropriate response to the shooting.
"Quick actions taken by police and district staff to secure the building prevented what might have otherwise been a disaster of unimaginable proportions, and we are extremely grateful for their well-rehearsed response," the district said.
Antigo is a relatively small, tight-knit community in Wisconsin with a population of just about 8,000 people. The area is located about 150 miles north of Milwaukee.
Reinhardt Balcerzak, a retired Antigo High School science teacher who now serves as a member of the city council, expressed his shock over the incident. He also extended his sympathy to the families of the students affected by the tragic incident.
"It just takes one or two that are angry about something. It's too bad that's going to be the memory for those kids. I feel bad that's their last prom. I feel bad for the ones who were shot and their parents," he said.
