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FBI Says Evidence Points to Ideological Motive in Minneapolis School Mass Shooting

Investigators cite a manifesto and weapon inscriptions as evidence of an ideologically motivated attack.

Overview

  • Two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed and 17 people were injured during a school Mass at Annunciation Catholic Church, with authorities saying most victims are expected to survive.
  • The attacker fired from outside through church windows and used a rifle, shotgun and pistol that police say were legally purchased.
  • Officials identified the suspect as Robin Westman, in their early 20s, who died by apparent suicide in a nearby parking lot and is believed to have acted alone.
  • The FBI says writings and videos include anti-religious, anti-Catholic and antisemitic messages, and officials reported weapon markings that included a call for violence against President Donald Trump.
  • Authorities are investigating the case as potential domestic terrorism and a hate crime against Catholics while they examine motive and any ties between the suspect and the church or school.