Today in Minnesota, specifically in Minneapolis, a tragic mass shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic Church during a school Mass marking the beginning of the academic year. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, fired through the church windows, killing two children aged 8 and 10, and injuring 17 others including 14 children and three elderly parishioners. Westman used legally acquired firearms and took her own life at the scene. The FBI is investigating the attack as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting the Catholic community. Authorities found additional firearms linked to the shooter at nearby residences. The motive remains unclear, but a manifesto prepared by Westman is under investigation. The community and state leaders have expressed grief and condolences, with vigils held in honor of the victims and flags ordered to be flown at half-staff.
Additionally, Minneapolis experienced other deadly shootings within the past 24 hours, contributing to a violent period in the city, but the standout event today is the mass shooting at the Catholic school.
