Two Children Killed, Dozens Injured in Minnesota Catholic School Shooting
Minneapolis, MN — A tragic shooting at the Annunciation Catholic School and Church in South Minneapolis on Wednesday left two young children dead and 17 others injured, including many children, authorities confirmed. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, ultimately died by suicide at the scene.
The shooting unfolded during a mass at the Catholic school, a place meant for worship and education, turning a day of hope into a scene of horror. Police officers from the Minneapolis Police Department immediately responded and provided first aid while rescuing children hiding in the building. Emergency medical services rushed victims to nearby hospitals.
Two children, aged eight and 10, were killed while seated in the pews. Of the 17 injured individuals, 14 were children, two of whom remain in critical condition. Hospital officials confirmed that all other injured victims are expected to survive.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara addressed the tragedy at a press conference, expressing the deep trauma inflicted upon the community. “Our hearts are broken for the families who have lost their children,” he said, emphasizing the community’s resolve to protect their children, schools, and places of worship from future violence.
The perpetrator, Robin Westman, was identified quickly by authorities. The motive remains under investigation, but initial reports indicate the shooter used an assault-style weapon, reigniting fierce debates about gun control in the United States.
This shooting is reported as the fifth incident of gun violence in K-12 schools nationwide since the beginning of the 2025 academic year. Advocacy groups, including March for Our Lives and Everytown for Gun Safety, have renewed calls for stricter gun regulations. Everytown reported at least 57 shootings at K-12 schools in 2025 prior to this incident, with 47 people shot and 15 killed.
Political leaders and advocacy groups have expressed sympathy for the victims and their families. Former President Donald Trump stated he had been fully briefed on the situation, commending rapid FBI response and White House monitoring. Student-led groups voiced that “no parent should fear sending their child to school” and lamented the loss of innocence in places meant to be safe.
The community of Minneapolis continues to heal as investigations proceed. Psychological counselors and support services have been mobilized to assist survivors and families affected by this senseless act of violence. Authorities vow to strengthen security measures in schools and religious institutions to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This heartbreaking event is a stark reminder of ongoing challenges related to gun violence in American schools and the urgent need for effective solutions to protect children.