By Julie Schenk

A fun night turned into a tragic event Saturday, April 23 at Antigo High School, when former student Jakob Wagner opened fire on a group of students leaving the prom around 11:00 p.m.

City of Antigo Police Officers were already on scene patrolling the parking lot at the event, and were able to respond to the gun fire within seconds after it occurred. Wagner was shot and later died after life-saving measures at a nearby hospital. Two other individuals were injured – the female victim was treated and released, while the male victim underwent surgery Sunday for non-life threatening injuries.

Chief Eric Roller, Principal Tom Zamzow, Superintendent Brian Misfeldt, and Sheriff Bill Greening addressed the media today, April 25, in a press conference at Antigo City Hall at 2:00 p.m.

Chief Roller stated that the investigation is still ongoing, and the press conference then started with a statement from Zamzow on behalf of the Antigo High School. He stated the community and school district experienced a tragedy, thankfully that they had never before seen. He then went on to say the district would like to thank the women and men who put themselves at risk to protect our students. With the efforts of the chaperones at the prom event, students remained calm and safe. Counseling service are being provided to students and staff to help them get through this event.

Chief Roller then read a statement from the family of the male victim who was shot: “On behalf of the male victim’s family, we would like to give the following statement. Our son is doing well. He has come through a long surgery and will recover with time and effort, but we have always believed that God is good and has a plan even in the midst of tragedy. We are so thankful for his girlfriend and two friends on the scene who acted so bravely and calm. We would also like to thank the police officers who responded so quickly, the medical staff, doctors, and the surgeons that have already gone above and beyond to help our son, and all the law enforcement from many counties who have dedicated themselves to investigating this shooting. We would like to especially thank the officers who saved the lives of our son, his girlfriend, their two friends, and the countless amount of students, staff, and others in and around the school. Lastly, we cannot express enough thanks for our family, friends, fellow employees, church, employers, school administration, and those in the community who continue to show and communicate their kindness and love to our son and family. Please continue to pray for our son, his girlfriend, two friends, fellow classmates, and everyone else involved as they recover from this traumatic night. Please also pray for the family of Jakob Wagner. As much as we are struggling through this event, we cannot imagine the grief they are experiencing at this time. We want everyone to know that we believe and trust in the eternal God. We are so thankful for the hope that we have in Him. That all can be forgiven of their sins and have eternal life when they believe in Jesus Christ as Savior.”

The Department of Criminal Investigation is continuing to investigate the event. There was no new information available at the time of the press conference.