The city of Minneapolis is reeling from heartbreak after a devastating school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School on the morning of August 27, 2025. What began as a peaceful morning Mass ended in tragedy when a gunman opened fire through the church windows, shattering the sanctity of a place meant for prayer and community.
The Attack
Witnesses described scenes of confusion and terror as gunfire erupted during Mass. Children, parents, and parishioners scrambled for safety inside the church pews.
Authorities confirmed that two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed in the attack. Another 17 people were injured, including 14 children and three elderly parishioners. Several victims remain hospitalized, some in critical condition, though officials remain hopeful for their recovery.
The suspected shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, later died by suicide. Police reported that the attacker used three firearms—a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol—all purchased legally.
Investigation Underway
The FBI and Minneapolis Police are investigating the incident as a possible act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime against Catholics. Authorities have reportedly recovered writings and videos believed to be linked to the shooter, which may provide insight into their motives.
“This was not just an attack on children. It was an attack on faith, on community, and on our sense of safety in sacred spaces,” Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said during a press conference.
Community and Leaders React
The tragedy has sparked waves of grief and outrage across Minneapolis and beyond.
🟢 Mayor Jacob Frey expressed frustration at the routine calls for “thoughts and prayers,” saying: “These kids were literally praying when they were killed. We must do more.”
🟢 Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called the attack “a devastating act of hate and violence” and ordered flags across the state to fly at half-staff in honor of the victims.
🟢 President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV both issued statements mourning the loss of young lives and urging unity against hatred.
Outside the school, hundreds of community members gathered in candlelight vigils, leaving flowers, drawings, and rosaries on the church steps. The parish bells tolled in remembrance of the young victims.
A City in Mourning
This shooting is one of the deadliest school-related attacks in Minnesota’s history. For many, the pain feels unbearable because the attack happened in a place meant to be safe—a church sanctuary.
Parents hugged their children tighter, teachers held back tears, and faith leaders reminded their congregations that love and resilience must guide them through tragedy.
“It’s unimaginable,” said one mother whose child survived the shooting. “I sent my daughter to school to learn and to pray. Instead, she came home traumatized by gunfire.”
A Larger Conversation
The incident has reignited national debates about gun violence, hate crimes, and the protection of schools and religious spaces. Law enforcement officials in other cities, including Berlin, have already stepped up security around schools and churches in response to the Minneapolis shooting.
Experts warn that beyond the immediate grief, the community will face long-term challenges, from trauma among children to policy battles over preventing similar attacks in the future.
Looking Ahead
As Minneapolis mourns, families are left with broken hearts and unanswered questions. Why did this happen? Could it have been prevented? And how can communities protect children in spaces that should be safe from violence?
For now, the city stands united in grief, determined to honor the memory of the two young lives cut short and to support the survivors as they begin a long journey of healing.