MINNEAPOLIS — A day that began with back-to-school prayers at Annunciation Catholic School turned into an unspeakable tragedy on August 27, when a 23-year-old gunman opened fire on students and parishioners during Mass. The horrific attack claimed the lives of two children, with another 17 individuals wounded. The shooter, identified as Robin Westman, a 2017 alumnus of the school, died by suicide behind the church after the rampage.
According to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, the attack unfolded as students were attending their first week of classes. Westman, who had legally purchased three firearms—a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol—reportedly opened fire through the church’s stained-glass windows. Of the wounded, 14 were children between the ages of 6 and 15, and three were elderly parishioners in their 80s. While some victims suffered severe trauma, all who were injured are expected to survive.
The FBI has since launched an investigation into the incident as an act of domestic terrorism and hate crimes targeting the Catholic community. Investigators are reviewing a manifesto Westman posted on YouTube before the attack, which has since been taken down. The document, described by officials as containing “disturbing writings,” and hateful messages scrawled on the weapons themselves, are at the centre of the probe. Conservative activist Laura Loomer shared images of the firearms on social media, showing phrases including anti-Semitic statements and inflammatory remarks aimed at various religious and ethnic groups.
The tragedy has reignited the national debate on identifying potential threats before they can act. First Lady Melania Trump underscored the importance of recognising red flags, stating that concerning behaviour and online threats often precede such violent acts. Westman, who previously went by the name Robert before transitioning, had no prior criminal history. Minneapolis law requires a permit to purchase firearms, which Westman had recently obtained. Police believe Westman acted alone. As the community grapples with the loss, the investigation continues into the motive behind the senseless act of violence against innocent children.
Read More: Manipur Police Crackdown Nabs Nine, Seizes Drugs Worth Lakhs