MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A tragic school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis has left two children dead and 17 others injured, shaking the city and reigniting the national debate over gun violence in schools. Authorities are investigating the attack as a possible hate crime and an act of domestic terrorism.
The Attack
The shooting occurred Wednesday morning during a Mass service attended by students, faculty, and families. According to Minneapolis police, the gunman, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, opened fire inside the church hall before taking their own life. Two children, ages 8 and 10, were pronounced dead at the scene. Of the 17 wounded, 14 were students, three were adults, and several remain in critical condition.
A smoke bomb was discovered near the altar, though no explosives were found, officials confirmed. Police Chief Brian O’Hara said investigators are analyzing the shooter’s digital history and potential motivations, noting that federal agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are assisting in the probe.
Shooter Identified
Authorities identified the suspect as Robin Westman, a Minneapolis resident who legally changed their name in 2020.
According to law enforcement officials, Westman had no prior felony convictions but had a history of mental health struggles. Investigators are examining whether extremist ideology played a role in the attack, as early evidence suggests Westman may have targeted the Catholic school specifically.
Community and Political Reactions
The shooting has drawn national attention and sparked conversations about school safety, gun control, and discrimination. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey urged the community to resist scapegoating marginalized groups, saying the city must respond with compassion, not fear.
“We cannot allow hate or misinformation to divide us further,” Frey said at a press conference. “This is a tragedy that affects all of Minneapolis, and we will stand united in grief and healing.”
President Donald Trump ordered flags at the White House to fly at half-staff in honor of the victims. In a statement, he praised law enforcement for their rapid response and offered condolences to the grieving families.
School Response
Annunciation Catholic School has canceled classes for the week and is providing counseling services for students, staff, and families. Church officials described the event as “the darkest day in the school’s history.” Archbishop Bernard Hebda of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis called on the faith community to offer prayers and solidarity.
“Our hearts break for the children we have lost, their families, and everyone scarred by this violence,” Hebda said. “We are committed to supporting this community through the healing process.”
National Context
The Minneapolis tragedy comes amid an alarming rise in school shootings across the United States. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been more than 400 mass shootings so far in 2025. Education and safety advocates warn that the nation’s schools remain vulnerable, with limited resources for both security and mental health support.
Moving Forward
City officials say the investigation will take time as they piece together the shooter’s motives and possible planning. Federal and local leaders have promised transparency. Meanwhile, grief-stricken families gathered at a candlelight vigil Tuesday night to honor the victims, leaving flowers, teddy bears, and handwritten notes outside the school gates.
As the city mourns, community leaders stress that the tragedy must become a catalyst for action. “This cannot just be another headline that fades away,” said community activist Nekima Levy Armstrong. “We owe it to the children we lost to make our schools safe.”