Minneapolis church shooter identified as Robin Westman

Gunman Kills Two Students in Attack on Minneapolis Church During School Mass, MINNEAPOLIS– A gunman opened fire through the windows of a Catholic church during a school mass, killing two students and wounding 17 other people, authorities reported. The suspected shooter was later found deceased at the scene. The attack occurred at Annunciation Catholic Church as students from the parish school attended a morning service to mark the first week of the academic year. Law enforcement officials have identified the suspect as Robin Westman, 23, of Richfield. Westman was discovered with what authorities believe to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. According to police, the shooter fired multiple rounds from a rifle from outside the building, striking worshippers inside. The deceased were identified as an eight-year-old and a ten-year-old student. Fourteen of the 17 wounded individuals were children, with several reported to be in critical condition at area hospitals. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara condemned the shooting as an act of “sheer cruelty and cowardice” directed at innocent children. A rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol were recovered at the scene. Investigators are exploring a possible motive. Preliminary reports suggest a potential connection between the shooter and an employee at the school, though officials have not confirmed this link. The incident has deeply affected the local community. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, stating, “These kids were literally praying.” The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the circumstances that led to the attack. The focus for the community now rests on supporting the families of the victims and the recovery of the injured.