Shooting at Minneapolis Catholic school leaves two children dead and 17 injured

A tragic shooting occurred at the Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on Wednesday morning, leaving two children dead and 17 others injured. The violence unfolded when a 23-year-old shooter, armed with multiple weapons, opened fire through the church windows during a Mass attended by students during their first week of school.

Attack during school Mass

Robin Westman, the alleged shooter, fired dozens of rounds into the church pews where children, aged 6 to 15, were gathered. Two students, aged 8 and 10, were killed. Fourteen other children and three elderly parishioners were injured, though they are all expected to survive. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that Westman, who carried a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, took their own life at the scene.

The attack has left parents and the local community in shock. Weston Halsne, a fifth-grader, recounted how he hid under a pew as shots rang out. "I was super scared for my friend, but I think now he's okay," the 10-year-old said.

Michael Simpson, Halsne's grandfather, expressed his anguish over the violence in a sacred space meant for worship. "I don't know where God is in this," he said.

Investigation underway

Authorities are treating the incident as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the investigation is focused on understanding the shooter’s motives, which remain unclear. Police are examining disturbing social media posts, including videos uploaded by the alleged shooter showing weapons with inflammatory messages and sketches of the church being stabbed by a knife.

Westman, who had no significant criminal record, acted alone, according to police. Further complicating the investigation, federal officials referred to Westman as transgender, though their gender identity remains unclear. In 2020, a legal name change from Robert to Robin was approved, citing female identification.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the attack and urged the community not to weaponize the shooter’s identity. "This is about protecting our kids and our communities," he said.

Community response and heroic efforts

The quick actions of law enforcement and school staff helped minimize further casualties. Police officers swiftly entered the church, rescuing children and providing first aid. Principal Matt DeBoer praised the bravery of teachers, students, and officers during the chaos. "Older children shielded younger ones; adults protected the kids," he said.

Parents gathered outside the church, anxiously awaiting news of their children. Many were seen embracing their children as they emerged from the school, visibly shaken. One parent, Danielle Gunter, whose eighth-grade son was injured, recounted how an officer comforted her son before he was taken to the hospital.

National and international reactions

The tragedy has drawn widespread condemnation. Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope, sent condolences from the Vatican, praying for the victims and their families. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and President Donald Trump ordered flags to be flown at half-staff. During a press conference, Walz lamented the violence, saying, "Children starting their school year should not be met with evil and horror."

Archbishop Gregory Hartmeyer of the National Catholic Education Association called for stronger gun control measures, stating, "The murder of children worshipping at Mass is unspeakable."

Violence in Minneapolis

This shooting comes amid a troubling spike in violence in Minneapolis. In the past 24 hours, multiple shootings have claimed additional lives across the city. However, police clarified that the Annunciation incident is unrelated to the other events.

Despite the recent tragedies, violent crime in Minneapolis has been declining. Data from AH Datalytics shows a 21% drop in homicides during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

As the community mourns, the focus remains on healing and ensuring safety for students and families in the city.