2 Children Killed, 17 Injured in Shooting at Minneapolis Catholic School Mass

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – A devastating shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis during a morning Mass on August 27, 2025, left two children, aged 8 and 10, dead and 17 others injured, including 14 children aged 6 to 15 and three elderly parishioners. The gunman, a 23-year-old former student of the affiliated school, identified as Robin Westman, died by suicide at the scene.

The attack occurred around 8:30 a.m. during a Mass marking the first week of the school year at Annunciation Catholic School. Westman, armed with a legally purchased rifle, shotgun, and pistol, fired through the church windows, targeting worshippers and children in the pews. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara described the incident as a “deliberate act of violence,” noting that locked church doors likely prevented further casualties. The 17 injured victims, some in critical condition, are expected to survive.

The FBI is investigating the shooting as an act of domestic terrorism and a possible hate crime targeting Catholics. Authorities are reviewing videos and a manifesto posted on a YouTube account linked to Westman, which included disturbing writings and a sketch of the church. No clear motive has been established, though Westman had no significant prior criminal record.

Community members gathered for a vigil at the Academy of Holy Angels, attended by hundreds, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. President Donald Trump ordered flags to be flown at half-staff until August 31. Pope Leo XIV expressed condolences, and the Minneapolis Foundation established a donation line to support victims and their families.

The incident adds to a troubling rise in violence, with over 140 school shootings reported in the U.S. in 2025. Local authorities and clergy are calling for unity and healing as the investigation continues.