Highlights:
A tragic shooting unfolded at the Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on the morning of Wednesday (27), leaving two children dead and 17 others injured. The attack occurred during a morning Mass as students, aged 6 to 15, were gathered in the church’s pews. Authorities quickly identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who fired multiple rounds through the church’s stained-glass windows before taking his own life at the scene.
Shooter’s background and weapon details
Robin Westman, previously known as Robert Westman before identifying as female, was an ex-student of the school. Police reported that Westman had no significant criminal history and acted alone. Investigators recovered three firearms from the scene — a rifle, a shotgun, and a handgun — all legally purchased by the shooter. Authorities also found a smoke grenade-like device among the equipment.
Before the attack, Westman posted videos that appeared to serve as a “manifesto” or suicide note detailing struggles with mental health and suicidal thoughts. Investigators removed these videos from online platforms. Westman bore disturbing writings on the weapons, including slogans such as “Nuke India,” “Mashallah,” “Israel Must Fall,” as well as anti-Semitic phrases like “6 million wasn’t enough” and “Jew Gas,” signaling extremist motives.
Victims and community impact
Among the wounded, 14 were children, with most expected to survive, and three elderly parishioners in their 80s were also injured. The two children who lost their lives were aged 8 and 10, killed as the gunfire shattered the solemn morning Mass. The attack shook the tight-knit Minneapolis community, prompting a wave of mourning and solidarity.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara described the incident as “a calculated act of violence against innocent children and others who were worshiping,” calling the act “utterly unfathomable.” He ordered increased police patrols as schools reopened in the city.
The FBI is investigating the attack as both a hate crime targeting Catholics and an act of domestic terrorism. Director Kash Patel confirmed federal involvement and stated that the nature and motives of the attack were being thoroughly examined. Authorities issued multiple search warrants for the church and the shooter’s residences across the metro area.
National response and broader context
The school shooting marks the 146th such incident in U.S. schools this year, underscoring ongoing concerns about gun violence and security. President Donald Trump, upon being informed, ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in mourning. He also affirmed federal support for the investigation.
The event occurred just days into the new academic year, adding to widespread distress among students, parents, and educators nationwide. The attack reignited urgent debates over gun control and preventive measures, especially considering the attacker’s legally obtained firearms.
Community members and survivors shared stories of heroism and trauma. One young victim recounted how a friend shielded him from bullets, a poignant reminder of the human cost of the violence.
The Minneapolis Catholic school shooting stands as a tragic reminder of the challenges facing U.S. schools in safeguarding children from violent acts. As families mourn and survivors recover, law enforcement and federal agencies continue their investigation, seeking justice and measures to prevent such senseless tragedies. The attack’s extremist overtones also highlight the complex national conversation involving hate crimes, mental health, security, and social cohesion in America today.
