How the ‘absolutely incomprehensible’ shooting unfolded at Annunciation Catholic School

In a devastating attack, a shooter opened fire during morning Mass at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, killing two young children and wounding 17 others, an act police chief Brian O’Hara condemned as “absolutely incomprehensible.” The incident unfolded on August 27, 2025, as the school community gathered for the first week of classes, turning a sacred moment into a scene of horror. The gunman, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, approached the church from the outside and fired a rifle through the windows, targeting children and worshippers inside the pews. Two children, aged 8 and 10, were killed instantly, and 17 people were injured, including 14 children and three adults in their 80s. Westman was armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, and authorities believe all weapons were used in the assault. Westman died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police found no explosives but discovered a smoke bomb. The suspect had lawfully purchased the weapons recently, and additional firearms were recovered from related locations. Investigation into the motive is ongoing, with officials examining disturbing YouTube videos posted by Westman that contained references to violence and a hand-drawn map of the church interior. The videos, which have been removed, showed notebooks with doodles of weapons and expletives, as well as ideological references, but no clear motive has been established. Westman’s mother had previously worked at the church, retiring in 2021, adding a personal connection to the location. In response to the tragedy, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey emphasized the need to support the victims’ families and warned against scapegoating any community, particularly in light of Westman’s transgender identity. Police Chief O’Hara described the act as deliberate and cowardly, highlighting the innocence of the victims. This shooting is part of a recent surge in gun violence in Minneapolis, including incidents the previous day. The community is mourning, with many residents expressing shock and fear. The FBI is assisting in the investigation, which is being treated as a potential hate crime due to anti-Catholic elements suggested by evidence. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on providing care for the injured and support for the grieving families, while broader discussions on gun control and community safety have been reignited.