The Attack and Immediate Aftermath
Devastating Violence at Morning Mass
A shocking mass shooting occurred Wednesday, August 27, at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis during an all-school church service. As students gathered for morning Mass—marking the start of the school year—a gunman fired through stained-glass windows using a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol. In what officials described as a “deliberate act of violence,” two children, aged 8 and 10, were killed, and 17 others were wounded, including 14 children. The suspect then died by suicide outside the building.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
First responders, including local police, federal agents, and medical teams, quickly swarmed the scene. Victims were transported to nearby hospitals like Hennepin County Medical Center and Children’s Minnesota, where several were listed in critical condition, with at least four requiring surgery. Families were directed to a reunification zone at the school, as grief and shock rippled through the community.
Suspect Identified and Investigation Underway
Who Was the Shooter?
Authorities identified the suspect as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who lived locally and reportedly had no significant criminal history. Westman fatally shot himself after the attack. It was later revealed that Westman’s mother once worked at the school, though a clear motive remains under investigation.
Officials Respond
Police Chief Brian O’Hara called the act “absolutely incomprehensible,” citing its sheer cruelty. Investigators confirmed no explosives were found, though a smoke device was discovered at the scene.
Community Reactions and National Voices
Local and National Symbols of Mourning
Governor Tim Walz described the shooting as “horrific,” urging Minnesotans to support affected families. President Donald Trump ordered flags at federal buildings lowered to half-staff. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops also issued a heartfelt statement urging healing, and Pope Leo XIV sent condolences from the Vatican.
A Shocked Neighborhood
Witnesses described hearing 50 to 100 gunshots that echoed through the neighborhood in under four minutes. Survivors, including a 10-year-old who was seated near the shooter, recounted hiding under pews while classmates were injured.
Broader Context and Policy Implications
Minnesota’s Enduring Crisis
This tragic shooting stands as the fourth deadly shooting in Minneapolis within 24 hours and marks the 33rd school shooting in the U.S. in 2025, raising alarm bells about gun violence sweeping across communities.
Calls for Change
Local leaders—like Mayor Jacob Frey and Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith—echoed the need to prevent future tragedies. Frey emphasized that this should never happen, especially while people were at prayer.
Community Support
Amid the grief, Mac’s Fish and Chips—a restaurant across from the school—opened its doors to offer free meals and space for families and first responders, offering a small comfort in a moment of overwhelming grief.
FAQ – Minneapolis Catholic School Shooting
1. Who was responsible for the shooting at Annunciation Catholic School?
Authorities identified 23-year-old Robin Westman as the sole shooter. He died by suicide at the scene after firing into the church during a school Mass.
2. How many victims were there?
The attack killed two children, ages 8 and 10, and injured 17 others, including 14 children, with several listed in critical condition.
3. What weapons did the shooter use?
The assailant used a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, firing through stained-glass windows at worshippers from outside the church. A smoke-like device was found, but no explosives were involved.
4. What are officials doing now?
Investigations into the shooter’s motive and background are ongoing. Meanwhile, local and federal agencies respond to memorialize victims, support survivors, and address gun safety concerns.
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