A tragic mass shooting unfolded at Annunciation Church and School in Minneapolis leaving two children dead and 17 others injured. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, took his own life after opening fire inside the church during a school mass.
The Victims
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed a total of 19 victims in the attack. Two children, aged eight and ten, were pronounced dead at the scene after being shot while seated in church pews during mass.
Among the injured are 14 other children, aged between six and fifteen, and three elderly parishioners in their 80s. Families of all affected children have been informed. O’Hara stated that while many have sustained serious injuries, all survivors are expected to recover.
The Shooter
Police identified the gunman as Robin Westman, 23, who had no prior criminal record. He legally purchased the weapons used in the attack — a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol.
“The shooter acted alone and took his own life in the rear of the church,” said O’Hara, describing Westman as a “coward” for targeting children during mass.
Weapons and Search Warrants
Law enforcement agencies are executing four search warrants: one at the church and three at residences linked to the suspect in the Minneapolis metro area. Additional firearms have been recovered from these locations. Authorities have emphasized that no other suspects are believed to be involved.
Manifesto Released Online
Investigators revealed that Westman had scheduled a manifesto to be released on YouTube at the time of the shooting. The video, which reportedly showed him at the scene and included disturbing writings, has since been taken down with help from the FBI. The manifesto is now being analyzed for possible motives.
Motive Under Investigation
The exact motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Investigators are combing through the manifesto and materials seized from Westman’s residences for answers. Chief O’Hara noted that further evidence may emerge from the ongoing searches.
Nation in Mourning
In response to the tragedy, U.S. authorities have ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of the victims. The shooting has shocked the community, with questions mounting over the growing frequency of school shootings across the country.
