Investigation into Minneapolis church shooting is underway as possible act of terrorism or anti-Catholic hate crime by FBI
In a shocking turn of events, a shooting at the Annunciation Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has left two children dead and 17 people wounded. The attack, which occurred during a church service and marked the first week back at school for the children, has sent ripples of grief and condemnation across the nation.
The FBI is investigating the shooting as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics. The attacker, identified as Robin Westman, a 23-year-old transgender woman, died by suicide in the church parking lot.
The author of a manifesto written before the shooting, as revealed by the police chief, is Robin Westman herself. The manifesto, which appeared to show the shooter "at the scene and included some disturbing writings and content," was filled with antisemitic content and references to the Holocaust. Videos posted online by the shooter showed a multi-page manifesto and names and drawings of firearms.
The school's principal and pastor praised the heroic actions of the staff who moved students under the pews within seconds of the shooting. One 10-year-old survivor of the shooting credited a friend for saving his life by covering him with his body.
The attack drew condemnation and expressions of grief from many, including President Donald Trump, Pope Leo XIV, and former president Barack Obama. Pope Leo XIV expressed being "profoundly saddened" by the tragedy, while President Trump directed US flags at the White House to be lowered to half-staff.
This year, there have been at least 287 mass shootings across the country, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The shooting in Minneapolis is the latest in a series of deadly school attacks in the US, where efforts to restrict easy access to firearms face political deadlock.
More than 600 people attended a vigil mourning the victims at a nearby school on Wednesday evening. Louise Fowler, an attendee at the vigil, knew the suspect's mother when she worked at the church.
Minneapolis Archbishop Bernard Hebda pointed out that the attack came just a day after another school shooting near the city. The attacker, Robin Westman, had legally purchased the weapons used in the attack (rifle, shotgun, and pistol).
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and authorities have not mentioned the attack near the city as a motive at this time. The community of Minneapolis stands united in grief and resilience, determined to heal and move forward.
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