Shooting at Annunciation Catholic School Leaves Two Children Dead and 17 Injured

Fatal Incident in Minneapolis Shakes the Community

Minneapolis, Minnesota — What was supposed to be a festive ceremony marking the start of the school year at Annunciation Catholic School turned into a national tragedy. A shooting during the morning mass claimed the lives of two children — ages 8 and 10 — and left at least 17 others injured, including 14 minors.

Terrifying Details of the Attack

According to initial reports, the attacker, a 23-year-old man identified as Robin Westman, arrived dressed in black and began shooting through the windows of the school church using at least three firearms: a rifle, a shotgun, and a handgun. He also blocked two doors with wooden boards, preventing attendees from escaping. After the attack, he took his own life.

The incident occurred in a grim context that underscores the deepening gun violence crisis in the United States. Students and teachers were forced to take shelter during what should have been a peaceful celebration.

Victims, Heroes, and Emotional Impact

Among the 17 injured are 14 children and three adults; several minors remain in critical condition. A chilling account described how a child was shot while trying to protect his friend. Hospital authorities confirmed that several patients underwent surgery and received emergency care after the attack.

Police Chief Brian O’Hara described the shooting as a deliberate act of violence against innocent children gathered in prayer. Minneapolis now bears another scar following this tragic event, which marks the second school shooting in just 48 hours.

Investigation and Official Statements

The FBI is investigating the case as a possible act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics. Governor Tim Walz ordered flags to be flown at half-staff, and community vigils were organized in an outpouring of grief and solidarity.

President Donald Trump, informed immediately after the incident, expressed his sorrow and ordered flags to be lowered across the nation as a sign of respect for the victims. He also issued an urgent call to ensure greater security in school environments, reinforcing the need to protect children.

Final Reflection: A National Call Against Violence

The shooting at Annunciation Catholic School has not only devastated a community but also highlights an alarming reality: sacred and educational spaces are no longer immune to horror. The deaths of two children in a church strike at the core of our collective conscience and the responsibility of society to protect its youngest members.

Now is the time for us as a nation — beyond political differences — to reaffirm our commitment to law and order, strengthening security in schools and public places. Only with concrete action can we prevent tragedies like this from happening again. The memory of those children demands that no more innocent lives be lost.