On August 27, 2025, tragedy struck Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, when a gunman opened fire during an all-school Mass marking the start of the academic year. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman (born Robert Westman), killed two children and injured 17 others before dying of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities are treating the attack as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics.


Minneapolis Church Mass Shooting
Minneapolis Church Mass Shooting

The Attack

The shooter fired 50–100 rounds from outside the church through its stained-glass windows.

Victims:


Two children killed (ages 8 and 10).

17 injured (14 children aged 6–15, and 3 elderly parishioners).


Weapons: rifle, shotgun, and handgun – all legally purchased.

A smoke bomb was recovered at the scene, along with additional weapons from residences linked to Westman.

The gunman left behind videos, writings, and a sketch of the church interior referencing previous mass shootings.

Community & Victim Response


Students and staff displayed remarkable courage by hiding under pews and helping each other to safety.

Medical officials confirmed that all 17 injured victims are expected to survive.

The tragedy has left the Catholic community and the city of Minneapolis in deep mourning.


Official Reactions


Police Chief Brian O’Hara: Called the shooting “an attack on faith and innocence.”

Mayor Jacob Frey: Declared a citywide day of mourning and ordered flags at half-staff.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz: Expressed grief and vowed to strengthen gun safety and community protection.

FBI Director Kash Patel: Confirmed the investigation is being handled as domestic terrorism and a hate crime.

Pope Leo XIV: Sent prayers and condolences from the Vatican, urging peace and healing for the victims’ families.


Background on Shooter


Robin Westman (23) had a history of online radicalization and referenced past mass shooters in his notes.

His mother had previously worked at the school affiliated with the church, raising questions about possible connections.

Motive remains unclear, though early evidence points to a mix of anti-Catholic hate and extremist influence.


FAQ's

Q1: Where did the mass shooting take place?
At the Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during a school Mass.

Q2: How many people were killed and injured?
Two children died, while 17 people were injured (14 children and 3 elderly parishioners).

Q3: Who was the shooter?
23-year-old Robin (Robert) Westman, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Q4: Was the shooting an act of terrorism?
Yes, the FBI classified it as domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics.

Q5: How are officials responding?
Local and federal authorities are investigating; flags are at half-staff, and Pope Leo XIV expressed condolences.