The first Mass of the new school year at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis turned into a scene of horror when a gunman opened fire through the church windows on Wednesday, August 27. Authorities confirmed that two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed instantly, while 17 others sustained injuries. Fourteen of the wounded were students, and three elderly parishioners in their 80s were also struck by gunfire. Emergency responders rushed to the chaotic scene as terrified parents and parishioners searched for their loved ones.
Suspect Identified as Former Student
Police later identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the back of the church. Officials said Westman had previously attended Annunciation Catholic School for at least a year and had recently been spotted near the campus in the days leading up to the new term. Westman’s mother, who once worked at the school before retiring in 2021, had filed a petition in 2019 to legally change her child’s name from Robert to Robin, noting that Westman identified as female.
Weapons and Planning Behind the Attack
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that Westman was armed with three firearms, a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol, all of which had been lawfully purchased. Investigators believe the attack was premeditated, as authorities recovered evidence of a manifesto that Westman had timed for release on YouTube. The video reportedly showed Westman at the scene of the shooting and included disturbing statements, though federal investigators swiftly removed it before it could spread widely online.
Domestic Terrorism and Hate Crime Investigation
The FBI is now leading the case, treating the attack as both an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics. FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized that the agency is pursuing every lead to determine what motivated Westman and whether there were any accomplices or online communities involved in radicalizing the suspect. “We will provide updates as we are able,” Patel said, underscoring the seriousness of the investigation.
Community in Mourning
The Minneapolis Catholic community has been left devastated by the violence. Vigils were quickly organized outside Annunciation Church as parents, teachers, and parishioners gathered to grieve the loss of two young children and to pray for the recovery of the wounded. Local leaders called for unity and support for the victims’ families, while law enforcement agencies pledged to review security measures at schools and religious institutions across the city.
Westman’s Troubled Past Under Scrutiny
As the investigation continues, more attention is being given to Westman’s past and mental health history. Court documents and witness statements suggest that Westman had grown increasingly isolated in recent years, struggling with personal identity and strained family relationships. Neighbors described erratic behavior but said there were no outward signs that hinted at such a violent act. Detectives are now working to piece together Westman’s psychological state and whether there were missed warning signs that could have prevented the tragedy.
Renewed Calls for School and Church Safety
The attack has reignited urgent debates over security in schools and places of worship. Parents and parishioners are demanding stronger safety protocols, including surveillance cameras, reinforced entry points, and expanded mental health support systems. Lawmakers in Minnesota have already signaled that new legislation addressing gun access and community safety will be introduced in the wake of the shooting. For many families, however, the immediate focus remains on mourning the lives lost and ensuring survivors receive the care and counseling they need to heal.
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