Minneapolis, MN — A tragic shooting unfolded Wednesday morning at Annunciation Catholic School and Church in south Minneapolis, during what was meant to be a joyful back-to-school Mass. In a matter of minutes, the celebration turned into a nightmare, leaving two children dead and 17 others injured — including 14 students and three elderly parishioners. Authorities are now investigating the attack as both a possible hate crime and an act of domestic terrorism.
How the Attack Happened
At approximately 8:30 a.m., as students gathered for the first Mass of the school year, a lone gunman opened fire through the church’s stained-glass windows. The two children who were killed were just 8 and 10 years old, seated in pews with classmates. Fourteen other children, ages 6 to 15, were wounded, along with three elderly attendees. Several victims remain in critical condition.
Suspect Identified
Minneapolis police have identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman (formerly Robert Paul Westman), a resident of Richfield, Minnesota. Westman was armed with multiple legally purchased firearms, including a rifle, shotgun, and pistol. He died by suicide at the scene, bringing the attack to an end. Investigators say Westman had a family connection to a former employee of Annunciation School.
Police and Federal Response
Law enforcement secured the campus within minutes, confirming there was no further active threat. The FBI has joined the investigation, examining the case as a potential hate crime and act of domestic terrorism. Federal authorities confirmed that Westman had posted a manifesto-style video online prior to the attack. The content has since been removed with assistance from the FBI.
Stories of Courage
Amid chaos and fear, acts of courage emerged. Ten-year-old Weston Halsne was saved when his friend Victor shielded him from gunfire, taking a bullet in the process. Victor’s sacrifice has already been described by witnesses as a moment of extraordinary bravery that will never be forgotten.
The Community Responds
Throughout the day, families and parishioners gathered at nearby churches and community centers to wait for news. Later that evening, hundreds attended candlelight vigils across Minneapolis, mourning the children lost and praying for those injured.
Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the shooting in strong terms, urging unity and compassion while rejecting the wave of online hostility that followed. Governor Tim Walz extended condolences on behalf of the state, and President Donald Trump ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff through August 31.
Renewed Debate on Gun Safety
The shooting has reignited national debate over gun violence, school security, and mental health. Advocates are calling for stronger legislation to protect students and communities, while critics argue the issue requires more immediate action than thoughts and prayers.
Timeline of Events
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8:30 a.m. — Gunman opened fire during school Mass at Annunciation Church.
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Minutes later — Two children killed, 17 others wounded.
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Soon after — Shooter died by suicide; no further threat confirmed.
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Afternoon — FBI investigation launched into hate crime and terrorism motives.
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Evening — Vigils held across Minneapolis; leaders issue statements of condolence.
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Nationwide — President Trump orders flags at half-staff.
A Lasting Impact
This tragedy has shaken Minneapolis and the nation, striking at the very heart of a sacred space and targeting the most innocent — children and elders. Though grief overwhelms the community, stories of bravery and resilience remind us that hope remains even in the darkest hours.
As the city mourns, one urgent question echoes nationwide: What must be done to ensure this never happens again?