Minneapolis Catholic School Shooter ‘Wanted Children to Suffer’; Victims Identified

A tragic shooting unfolded on the morning of August 27, 2025, at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, leaving two children dead and 17 others wounded during a Mass service marking the first week of school. The attacker, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, fired 116 rifle rounds through the stained glass windows of the church, aiming at children and worshippers gathered inside. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara described the attack as a deliberate and horrific act of violence rooted in hatred and a disturbing obsession with previous mass shooters.

The Devastating Attack

Just before 8:30 a.m., Westman approached the side of the church and unleashed a barrage of gunfire using three firearms a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol. The shooting lasted for several minutes as those inside scrambled for safety, with staff heroically shepherding students under pews to shield them from harm. The church doors were locked for security, but Westman had barricaded the outside doors to trap parishioners.

Tragically, two children, eight-year-old Fletcher Merkel and ten-year-old Harper Moyski, lost their lives. Both families expressed profound grief, mourning the loss of bright, vibrant children who had so much ahead of them. An additional eighteen victims, including 15 children ages 6 to 15 and three elderly adults in their 80s, were injured. Fortunately, all survivors are expected to recover.

The Shooter and Motive Investigation

Authorities identified the shooter as Robin Westman, who was born Robert Westman and had legally changed their name in 2020 to reflect their gender identity. Police found evidence connecting Westman to an intense hatred of almost every group, including Black, Mexican, Christian, Jewish communities, and even former President Donald Trump. According to U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson, Westman’s only apparent admiration was for other infamous school shooters, signaling a dark fixation with mass violence.

Videos and notebooks discovered at the scene revealed repeated references to violence, weapons, and hateful ideations. Police consider the attack a hate crime and are investigating it as an act of domestic terrorism, with the FBI intensely reviewing Westman’s writings and online postings.

Witness Accounts and Immediate Response

Students who survived recounted the shock as they heard rapid gunfire near stained-glass windows, quickly seeking refuge under pews. One 10-year-old fifth-grader described seeing a friend hit and being carried to the hospital. Neighbors nearby reported rushing to the scene to comfort wounded children until first responders arrived.

Minneapolis schools and churches are on high alert, with Governor Tim Walz dispatching additional state law enforcement to bolster security. The community has been deeply shaken, with local families visiting the church to process grief and begin healing.

Calls for Change and Mourning Amid Recovery

Mayor Jacob Frey expressed profound sorrow, emphasizing that prayers alone are insufficient to address recurring gun violence in the city. He urged policymakers to enact meaningful gun control to prevent future tragedies. Survivors’ parents echoed this call for action, highlighting the devastating impact on families and the community at large.

The attack has also sparked widespread support for victims and their families. Memorials have grown at the church site, with community members coming together to honor lives lost and advocate for safer schools and public spaces.