Two children were killed and 17 others injured after a gunman opened fire during Mass at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis. Authorities identified the suspect and revealed disturbing details.
Tragedy struck Minneapolis on August 27, 2025, when a gunman opened fire during a student Mass at Annunciation Church, killing two children and injuring 17 others.
The Attack
According to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, the suspect opened fire with multiple weapons — including a rifle, shotgun, and pistol — shooting through stained glass windows and directly targeting children in the pews.
Victims: Two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed.
There is an active police situation at Annunciation Church, 509 W. 54th St. There is no active threat to the community at this time. The shooter is contained. Stay away from the area to allow emergency personnel to help victims – W. 54th Street between Lyndale and Nicollet Ave.
— City of Minneapolis (@CityMinneapolis) August 27, 2025
Injuries: 17 others were wounded, including 14 children. Two remain in critical condition.
Response: The city issued an emergency alert urging residents to avoid the area.
Suspect Identified
Authorities identified the shooter as Robin Westman, a local resident in her early 20s. Police confirmed Westman is deceased.
Key findings from the investigation include:
Westman legally changed her name from Robert in 2020.
A deleted YouTube channel showed videos with firearms, extremist symbols, and racist content.
A handwritten four-page manifesto revealed years of emotional isolation and mental struggles.
In the document, Westman wrote:
“I am not well. I am not right. I am a sad person, haunted by these thoughts that do not go away. I know this is wrong, but I can’t seem to stop myself.”
Eyewitness and Parent Accounts
Weston Halse, a 5th grader, recalled hiding under a pew as gunfire erupted:
“My friend Victor saved me ’cause he laid on top of me, but he got hit.”
Parents like Carla Maldonado described the panic as they searched for their children:
“I am incredibly grateful my kids are alive, but also just incredibly sad and angry that this has to be a thing in any school.”
National Response
President Donald Trump addressed the tragedy on Truth Social, offering prayers and confirming the FBI’s involvement. He ordered all U.S. flags flown at half-staff until August 31 in memory of the victims.
The community now mourns two young lives lost while praying for those still fighting to recover.
