Minneapolis Catholic School Shooting Kills 2 Children, Injures 17

A tragic shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis during a morning Mass, where a gunman armed with multiple firearms fired through stained-glass windows, killing two children aged eight and ten and injuring 17 others, including 14 children. The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, took his own life at the scene, and authorities have not determined a motive for the attack. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara described the act as deliberate and incomprehensible, emphasizing the cruelty of targeting children during worship. The incident deeply shocked the community and prompted expressions of sorrow from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Pope Leo XIV sent a telegram of heartfelt condolences and spiritual support to the victims' families, the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, and the greater Twin Cities area, commending the souls of the deceased children to God and praying for the wounded and first responders. Annunciation Catholic School, serving over 300 students from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade, mourns the loss as the community rallies around victims and families affected by this horrific act.