MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — A horrifying act of violence shattered the morning calm in south Minneapolis on Wednesday when a mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School left three people dead—including two children—and at least 17 others injured, authorities confirmed.
The suspected gunman, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene after unleashing gunfire during morning mass. Police described the attack as one of the most chilling school-related shootings the city has ever witnessed.
Children Among the Victims
Two young children, ages 8 and 10, were killed in the assault. Of the 17 wounded, 14 are children and three are adults.
Among those critically injured is 14-year-old Sophia, who remains in life-threatening condition following emergency surgery. Her condition was shared publicly by Fr. Timothy Sas of St. Mary Greek Orthodox Church, who called on the community to join him in prayer for her survival.
“This is a moment of profound grief and heartbreak,” Fr. Sas said. “We pray for Sophia, for the children we lost, and for every family whose life has been torn apart by this senseless violence.”
How the Attack Unfolded
Investigators say the gunman approached the side of the church connected to the school shortly before 9 a.m. and opened fire through stained glass windows as students gathered for morning mass.
Authorities revealed that Westman appeared to have blocked at least two entrances with wooden planks, seemingly in an attempt to trap victims inside.
The assailant carried three weapons—a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol—all of which were discharged during the rampage. Witnesses described chaos and terror as the sound of gunfire echoed through the sanctuary, shattering glass and forcing children to scramble for safety.
Police: “A Deliberate Act of Cruelty”
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara condemned the massacre in strong terms during a press briefing.
“This was a deliberate act of violence against innocent children and worshippers,” O’Hara said. “The sheer cruelty of firing into a church full of children is absolutely incomprehensible. It is an unspeakable act of cowardice.”
The chief confirmed that Westman ultimately died by suicide near the rear of the church.
Troubling Background of the Suspect
Court documents reviewed by Channel 2 News show that the shooter, originally named Robert Westman, legally changed her name to Robin in 2020 while still a minor. Records note that Westman “identifies as a female and wants her name to reflect that identification.”
Investigators also learned that Westman’s mother, who retired in 2021, had once worked at Annunciation Catholic School, raising further questions about potential motives.
Authorities are also combing through digital evidence tied to the suspect. A YouTube account believed to belong to Westman—since deleted—contained a 20-minute video resembling a manifesto.
According to investigators, the video depicted a drawing of a church being stabbed repeatedly while a voice said, “I’m going to kill myself.” Other videos featured gun parts and firearms, some marked with the names of infamous mass shooters. In one segment, a threatening message was reportedly directed at former President Donald Trump.
Vehicle and Evidence Recovered
Police recovered Westman’s vehicle parked near the school and are conducting forensic analysis to determine whether additional weapons or explosives were stored inside.
Investigators are still working to confirm whether the gunfire came entirely from outside the church or if the assailant managed to briefly enter during the assault.
Community in Shock
The shooting has devastated families and rattled the community just days after the start of a new school year.
Parishioners, teachers, and parents were seen consoling one another outside the school grounds as law enforcement cordoned off the area. Counselors and crisis teams have been dispatched to provide support to children and families traumatized by the attack.
Faith leaders across Minneapolis have united in calling for solidarity, prayer, and healing. “We are broken-hearted, but we will not be divided by this violence,” said Fr. Sas.
Ongoing Investigation
Federal and state agencies, including the FBI and ATF, are assisting Minneapolis police with the investigation. Authorities are working to trace the origins of the weapons used and are reviewing whether Westman acted alone or had communicated plans to others.
Officials said updates would be provided as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, grief grips the city as candles, flowers, and handwritten notes accumulate outside the church in memory of the children and victims lost.
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