In a tragic incident at a Wisconsin middle school, a 14-year-old student was fatally shot by police after approaching the school with what appeared to be a long gun. The incident took place on Wednesday morning near Mount Horeb Middle School, located approximately 20 miles southwest of Madison.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ), the shooting occurred after authorities received a report of an individual carrying a backpack and a long gun near the school at around 11 a.m. Upon arriving at the scene, Mount Horeb police officers confronted the 14-year-old boy, later identified as a student, east of the school's main entrance.

The DOJ stated that officers requested the teen to drop his pellet gun, but instead, he pointed it at them. In response, the officers fired their weapons, ultimately resulting in the teenager's death. Fortunately, no other individuals were harmed during the incident.

The weapon discovered at the scene was identified as a Ruger .177 caliber pellet rifle, according to the state DOJ. The agency's Division of Criminal Investigation is currently conducting an investigation into the shooting.

Moreover, it was revealed that the involved law enforcement officers were wearing body cameras during the incident. As per agency policy, the officers have been placed on administrative leave.

The loss of this young life has left the community in shock and mourning. School officials, along with local authorities, are providing support and counseling services to both students and staff members affected by the tragic event.

This incident serves as a somber reminder of the complex and challenging decisions faced by law enforcement officers while ensuring public safety. As the investigation continues, the community awaits further updates from the Wisconsin DOJ regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

It is crucial to remember that the information provided is limited to the details outlined by the Wisconsin Department of Justice, and further developments may arise as the investigation progresses.