Minneapolis, Minn. — A tragic shooting unfolded during a school Mass at Annunciation Catholic Church on Wednesday, claiming the lives of two children and injuring 18 others. The gunman, later identified as Robin Westman, 23, died by suicide at the scene shortly after opening fire within the church, which is adjacent to a school.
The attack occurred shortly after the service commenced, marking the start of the school year and drawing students and families together in prayer. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara reported that officers received a call reporting gunfire at 8:27 a.m. A police officer arrived just minutes later, guided by parishioners to the gunman’s location.
Authorities revealed that Westman used multiple firearms during the incident, including a rifle, shotgun, and handgun. A meticulous recovery effort yielded 116 rifle rounds and three shotgun shells, along with a malfunctioned live round found jammed in the handgun. Eyewitnesses reported a scene of chaos as parishioners scrambled for safety.
The two victims were identified as Fletcher Merkel, 8, and Harper Moyski, 10, both fatally shot while seated in the pews. Their families expressed their heartache, describing snippets of their beloved children’s lives while calling for privacy during this devastating time.
Among the injured, 15 were children ranging in age from 6 to 15, and the severity of their conditions spanned various degrees. Officials reported that most of those hurt were expected to survive, though some were in critical condition. Hospitals across the area are actively treating patients as communities rally in support.
In the aftermath, law enforcement is exploring Westman’s background and motivations. Preliminary investigations suggest that he had legally purchased the weapons used in the shooting and displayed signs of planning, including prior visits to the church. His fascination with past mass shootings is raising alarms amongst investigators who are currently classifying the event as both a hate crime and an act of domestic terrorism.
Community leaders and local officials, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, expressed a collective grief and urgency for change. Frey emphasized the need for action beyond mere thoughts and prayers, highlighting that children should be able to worship and learn in safety. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and President Trump also extended condolences and voiced their commitment to monitoring the situation.
As families and the community work through their grief, many are left questioning not only the circumstances surrounding this horrific incident but also the broader implications for safety in places of worship. The investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement delving deeper into Westman’s social media presence and other electronic evidence for further insights.