A devastating incident unfolded on Wednesday morning at a Catholic school in South Minneapolis, where a shooter opened fire during morning Mass. This tragic event resulted in the loss of two young lives and left 17 others injured, including 14 children and three senior parishioners. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara confirmed that all injured individuals are expected to survive, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.
The shocking attack, which occurred just three days into the fall semester, sent ripples of grief throughout the city, state, and nation. Leaders from various sectors, including President Trump and Pope Leo XIV, extended their condolences to the heartbroken community. In response to this tragic event, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has mandated that all U.S. and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at state buildings, honoring the victims of one of the most horrific acts of gun violence targeting a Minnesota school in decades.
According to police reports, the assailant approached the side of Annunciation Catholic Church during a service marking the start of the school year and began firing into the windows. The two children, ages 8 and 10, were tragically seated in the pews when they were shot. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, succumbed to a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the rear of the church. Authorities revealed that Westman was armed with a rifle, a pistol, and a shotgun, all of which were lawfully purchased recently.
In a heartfelt statement, Police Chief O'Hara condemned the attack as a "deliberate act of violence against innocent children and worshippers." He expressed disbelief at the "sheer cruelty and cowardice" of targeting a church filled with children. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Don't just say this is about thoughts and prayers right now. These kids were literally praying."
The shooting, reported around 8:30 AM, prompted a significant law enforcement presence in the neighborhood. The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, State Patrol, and the FBI joined local authorities at the scene, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. As investigations continue, Chief O'Hara revealed that detectives are reviewing a now-removed video believed to have been posted online by the shooter, which may provide insights into a potential motive.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the agency is treating the attack as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics. This classification highlights the severity of the attack and its implications for community safety and religious freedom.
This tragic shooting is part of a broader context of violence in Minneapolis, occurring at the end of a deadly 24-hour period. During this timeframe, police responded to three separate fatal shootings from Tuesday evening into early Wednesday morning. However, Chief O'Hara clarified that the church attack does not appear to be connected to these other incidents.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this horrific event, further updates will be provided as investigations continue. Our thoughts remain with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this senseless act of violence.
