Tragedy struck Minneapolis on Wednesday morning when a gunman opened fire during a back-to-school Mass at Annunciation Catholic School and Church, leaving two children dead and 17 others injured.
Authorities identified the attacker as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who was armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol—all legally purchased. He later took his own life at the scene.
Among the victims were 14 children and three elderly parishioners. Officials confirmed that several remain hospitalized, with some in critical condition, though doctors expressed optimism about the children’s recovery.
The FBI classified the incident as both domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics, citing a manifesto and online posts linked to Westman that expressed anti-Catholic views.
READ ALSO:Accused Gunman Pleads Not Guilty in Healthcare CEO’s Murder, Sparks Reform Debate
National leaders, including President Donald Trump, former President Barack Obama, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, condemned the attack and called for urgent measures to protect schools and places of worship. Flags across Minnesota have been lowered to half-staff in honor of the victims.
The shooting is the fourth deadly attack in Minneapolis within 24 hours, amplifying concerns over public safety. Nationwide, at least 33 school shootings have been recorded in 2025, reigniting debate over gun control and community security.
Counselors and trauma specialists have been deployed to support grieving families, students, and parishioners as the city confronts the aftermath of the tragedy.