In a shocking incident that has left the Minneapolis community reeling, police have identified the shooter responsible for opening fire outside a church at a Catholic school. The suspect, 23-year-old Robin Westman, is alleged to have killed two children and injured 17 others during the attack at the Annunciation Catholic School on Wednesday morning.
According to police reports, an 8-year-old and a 10-year-old were tragically shot and killed when Westman fired through the windows of the church. The Department of Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, confirmed Westman's identity, describing her as a "deranged monster." Noem expressed her condolences, stating, "This level of violence is unthinkable. Our deepest prayers are with the children, parents, families, educators, and Christians everywhere. We mourn with them, we pray for healing, and we will never forget them."
Driver's license information obtained by ABC News describes Robin Westman as a female born on June 17, 2002. Notably, a name change application was approved by a Minnesota district court in 2020, changing the name from Robert Westman to Robin Westman, as the individual identifies as female. Police have confirmed that Westman is believed to be the only suspect involved in this heinous act.
Despite the gravity of the situation, authorities noted that Westman does not appear to have a significant criminal history. Tragically, Westman died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara.
Witness accounts reveal that Westman approached the side of the church building and began firing a rifle through the windows, targeting children and worshipers seated in the pews. The police report indicates that Westman was armed with multiple firearms, including a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol, and it is believed she fired from all three weapons during the attack.
Authorities confirmed that all firearms were purchased lawfully and were obtained recently. Additional firearms related to the shooter are being recovered from various residences. Law enforcement is currently examining information left behind by Westman in an attempt to uncover a motive for this horrific shooting.
While no explosives were found at the scene, officials did locate a smoke bomb. Investigators are also delving into social media accounts believed to be linked to Westman. A concerning video posted earlier on YouTube has drawn attention; it depicted an individual flipping through pages of notes, which included drawings of weapons and an illustration of the church interior. This video has since been removed.
In addition, one of the notebooks contained a sticker proclaiming "defend equality" alongside a silhouette of a long gun, while another sticker referenced a German band associated with the Columbine shooters, which has publicly denounced violence.
Police Chief Brian O'Hara condemned the attack, labeling Westman a coward and describing the shooting as a deliberate act of violence that is "absolutely incomprehensible." Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey echoed these sentiments, stating, "This kind of evil should never happen." He urged the community to focus on the victims and their families rather than using the tragedy to vilify any particular group, emphasizing the need for compassion in the face of such profound loss.
As the investigation continues, the Minneapolis community mourns the heartbreaking loss of young lives and supports the affected families during this difficult time.
