A deadly shooting outside Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis on Wednesday morning left two children dead and 17 others injured during a school Mass. Police identified the suspected gunman as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who authorities say died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound shortly after the attack. The incident occurred during the first week of the new school year, shaking the local community.
According to investigators, the gunfire was directed from outside the church into the building, where students and staff had gathered. Despite some reinforced areas, bullets penetrated glass windows and entry points. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as children scrambled for cover. Emergency responders arrived within minutes, and the area was quickly secured. Police later confirmed there was no ongoing threat.
Hennepin Healthcare declared a mass-casualty response as victims began arriving. Of the 11 patients treated there, nine were children between the ages of 6 and 14, and four required immediate surgery. Additional victims with less severe injuries were treated at other facilities or released to their families. Hospital staff activated emergency protocols, bringing in pediatric teams and mental health support for affected families.
Authorities said Westman was a former student at the school and had posted several online videos shortly before the shooting, along with a handwritten note referencing mental health struggles. While police continue to examine possible motives, they emphasized that no single factor has been confirmed. Classes at the school have been suspended, and counseling services are being offered as the community mourns the lives lost.
