Federal Investigation into Shooter’s Motive
Federal authorities are revealing chilling insights into the mindset of 23-year-old Robin Westman, who killed two children and injured 18 others at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on August 27, 2025. Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson said investigators are reviewing hundreds of pages of writings attributed to Westman, which express “pure, indiscriminate hate” toward nearly every group imaginable.
Obsession with Killing Children
Thompson emphasized that Westman was “obsessed with the idea of killing children” and deliberately sought to target the most vulnerable while they were at school and church. His writings reportedly expressed animosity toward Black people, Mexican people, Christian people, Jewish people, and others, showing a generalized hatred of society and a fixation on harming defenseless individuals.
Desire for Infamy and Fascination with Mass Shootings
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said Westman’s writings reveal a fascination with previous mass shootings. Authorities believe he planned the attack to gain notoriety, studying past incidents and fantasizing about replicating them. O’Hara called Westman’s mindset “very disturbing” and confirmed that investigators have recovered hundreds of pieces of evidence, including writings and other materials, to understand his intentions.
Shooter’s Background and Immediate Response
Westman’s mother had formerly worked at the Catholic school where the shooting occurred. Westman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in the school parking lot after opening fire on students and staff. The attack occurred just before 8:30 a.m., with Westman firing from outside the church and shooting through windows at children gathered for morning Mass. Law enforcement and first responders arrived quickly, attending to the wounded. All surviving children are expected to recover from their injuries.
Impact on Victims’ Families
The attack claimed the lives of two children, 10-year-old Harper Moyski and 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel. Moyski’s parents described their heartbreak, calling her a “bright, joyful, and deeply loved 10-year-old” whose laughter and spirit touched everyone she knew. Families of other injured children are also grappling with trauma and recovery, while the community mourns the unimaginable loss.
Community and Official Response
Mayor Jacob Frey called the attack “unspeakable,” urging Minneapolis residents to support the grieving families. Schools and local organizations held vigils to honor the victims. Federal and local authorities continue to analyze Westman’s writings and evidence to prevent similar tragedies and understand the warning signs of extreme violence.
