On August 27, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during a service marking the beginning of the school year. The event resulted in the deaths of two children, aged 8 and 10, and left 17 others injured, including 14 minors, with two children reported in critical condition.
The assailant, identified as 20-year-old Robin Westman, reportedly used a rifle, a pistol, and a shotgun to fire into the church from outside. Law enforcement officials indicated that Westman acted alone and did not have an extensive criminal record. He was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities revealed that Westman had left behind online videos expressing violent thoughts and an apology to his family, as well as a sketch of the church's interior.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara described the incident as incomprehensible, emphasizing the gravity of targeting a church filled with children. Mayor Jacob Frey also expressed his condolences, urging the community to empathize with the affected families.
Victims were taken to two hospitals for treatment, with the youngest among them ranging from 6 to 14 years old. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and President Donald Trump both offered condolences, with Trump stating that the FBI was responding to the situation.
U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith later commented on the violence, with Smith highlighting the fear children should not have to experience during their first week of school. The incident has drawn national attention and calls for reflection on the impact of gun violence in community settings.