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Two Children Killed, 17 Injured in Minneapolis Church Shooting During School Mass

The FBI is treating the attack as domestic terrorism, a hate crime targeting Catholics.

Parents await news of their children's status after shooting at Annunciation Church on Wednesday morning, Aug. 27, 2025 in Minneapolis. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/The Minnesota Star Tribune
FBI Director Says Minneapolis Shooting Being Investigated as Domestic Terrorism and Hate Crime Targeting Catholics
Police and first responders at the scene
A parent hugs her son after an active shooter situation at the Annunciation Church in Minneapolis, Minn., Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/Star Tribune via AP)

Overview

  • Police identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who died by suicide behind the church after firing into the sanctuary.
  • Investigators say the attacker shot from outside through stained-glass windows with a rifle, shotgun and pistol; at least two exits were found barricaded and a smoke bomb was recovered.
  • Federal and local authorities are examining online videos and a timed manifesto linked to the suspect that platforms have since removed.
  • Hospitals reported numerous pediatric patients, several surgeries and three injured parishioners in their 80s, with all wounded expected to survive.
  • Officials say Westman had no extensive known criminal history, is believed to have acted alone, and the school executed evacuations and family reunification as the community gathered for vigils.