Police in Madison, Wisconsin, said they were responding to a shooting incident at a local Christian school on Monday and had reports of several injuries.

Police said they responded to reports of an active shooter at Abundant Life Christian School around 10:57 a.m. local time. They identified a “juvenile” who died at the scene and who they believe was responsible for the shooting. They are encouraging residents to avoid the area.

Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes said at least four people were killed in addition to the shooter and five people were taken to a nearby hospital with injuries. Barnes did not say whether the deceased were students or teachers.

“This is something you prepare for but hope you never have to do,” a police spokesman told reporters. “Today is a sad, sad day.”

Emergency vehicles stand in front of Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, where several injuries were reported after a shooting on Monday, December 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Scott Bauer)

Barnes clarified that the injuries ranged from “minor to life-threatening.”

Police also said they train for active shooter situations “almost quarterly” and that they last conducted the training about two weeks ago.

“Madison police are investigating a shooting at Abundant Life Christian School. Several injuries were reported. This is still an active and ongoing investigation. Further information will be released as it becomes available,” police said in a statement.

“We need people to avoid the area at this time,” police added.

Emergency vehicles stand in front of Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, where several injuries were reported after a shooting on Monday, December 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Scott Bauer)

Students were completely evacuated from the school and police conducted multiple evacuations of the building. Barnes said they would conduct a third check with bomb-sniffing dogs “just in case.”

This is a developing story. Check back soon for updates.