A tragic shooting shook Minneapolis on the morning of August 27, 2025, when Robin Westman, 23, opened fire at the Annunciation Church, killing two children, aged 8 and 10, and injuring 17 people, 14 of whom were students. The attack took place during a morning Mass celebrating the start of the school year at the Annunciation Catholic School in the south of the city. Westman, who used a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol, fired through the church’s windows before taking his own life at the scene. Police confirmed that the shooter’s mother, Mary Grace Westman, worked at the school until 2021, but the motives for the crime remain under investigation. The incident shocked the local community, which rallied in support of the victims.
The violence, described as “incomprehensible” by Police Chief Brian O’Hara, occurred during a moment of prayer, with children seated in the church pews. The tragedy sparked national outrage, with reactions from authorities like President Donald Trump and Governor Tim Walz.
- Attack details: Westman fired dozens of shots, possibly up to 100, using three weapons.
- School connection: The shooter’s mother, Mary Grace, was a former school employee.
- Immediate response: Police evacuated the school and set up a family reunification zone.
The incident marked the third day of the school year, intensifying grief in a community already shaken by other violent episodes in the past 24 hours in the city.
Family connection to the school
Mary Grace Westman, Robin Westman’s mother, was an employee at the Annunciation Catholic School until her retirement in 2021, as reported by police sources to KARE 11. Although her exact role was not disclosed, the church highlighted her five years of service in a 2021 Facebook post, suggesting a significant tie to the institution. This connection raises questions about possible personal motivations for the shooter, which remain unclear. Police reported that Westman had no extensive criminal history, but investigations continue to determine if he attended the school or had other ties to the community.
The attack was planned with details indicating premeditation. According to Police Chief Brian O’Hara, Westman barricaded side doors of the church with wooden planks, hindering victims’ escape. He also left an item described as a “smoke bomb” at the scene, though no explosives were found.
- Attack planning: Barricaded doors suggest intent to maximize harm.
- Non-explosive device: A smoke bomb was found in the suspect’s car.
- Shooter’s background: Westman had a limited criminal record.
- Ongoing investigation: Police are analyzing videos and documents left by the suspect.
Profile of Robin Westman
Robin Westman, identified as the shooter, was 23 and lived in Richfield, a Minneapolis suburb. In 2020, at age 17, he legally changed his birth name, Robert, to Robin, citing his identification as a woman, according to court documents obtained by the Minnesota Star Tribune. Before the attack, Westman posted videos on a now-deleted YouTube account, including an alleged manifesto with references to violent thoughts, an apology to his family, and a sketch of a church layout, possibly the Annunciation’s.
Police confirmed Westman acted alone, using a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol. He fired from outside the church, targeting stained-glass windows where children and worshippers were gathered. Witnesses reported hearing between 50 and 100 shots over about four minutes, indicating a prolonged and intense attack.
Community and official reactions
The tragedy sparked grief and outrage in Minneapolis. Mayor Jacob Frey criticized the use of phrases like “thoughts and prayers,” noting that the children were praying when attacked. “These families are enduring extraordinary pain,” Frey said at a press conference. Governor Tim Walz expressed solidarity, stating the state is “heartbroken” and pledging support for the victims. President Donald Trump announced that flags at the White House and federal buildings would fly at half-mast until August 31 in honor of the victims.
- Police response: Officers entered the church to provide first aid and rescue hidden children.
- Medical support: Hospitals like Hennepin Healthcare and Children’s Minnesota treated 17 injured, seven in critical condition.
- Family reunification: A zone was established for parents to find their children.
- National outcry: Leaders like Senator Amy Klobuchar mourned the violence.
The local community, described as tight-knit, felt the impact deeply. Residents like Bill Bienemann, living blocks from the church, reported shock upon hearing the shots. His daughter, Alexandra, a former student, said the tragedy left her “sick” and unsafe in the neighborhood where she grew up.
Violence in Minneapolis
The Annunciation shooting occurred amid recent violence in the city. In the prior 24 hours, three other armed incidents left victims, including one near a Catholic high school. While police say these events are unrelated, the string of crimes heightened fear among residents. Police Chief Brian O’Hara called the attack a “deliberate act of violence against children and worshippers,” emphasizing its cruelty.
The Annunciation Catholic School, serving about 370 elementary students, is known for its faith-based education. The morning Mass, held to mark the school year’s start, was a traditional event. The tragedy disrupted this moment of celebration, leaving deep scars in the school community.
Investigation and next steps
Minneapolis police, with FBI and ATF support, continue investigating. Agents are examining Westman’s vehicle, found in the church parking lot, and searching his electronic devices and social media for clues. The ATF is tracing the origin of the weapons used, with no details yet on how Westman acquired them or if he had legal permits.
Videos posted by Westman before the attack, according to reports, contained disturbing messages, including references to other shooters and phrases like “where is your God?” and “for the children” written on his ammunition magazines. Their authenticity is being verified, but they suggest detailed planning and possible fixation on prior attacks.
- Weapon tracing: The ATF investigates the source of the three firearms used.
- Video analysis: Authorities verify the alleged manifesto’s authenticity.
- Motive search: Police examine Westman’s life to understand his intentions.
- Community support: Local schools bolster security post-incident.
Impact on the school community
The Annunciation School, located in a residential south Minneapolis neighborhood, is a central hub for local families. The attack shook residents’ trust, many of whom have historical ties to the institution. Parents like Vincent Francoual, whose son attends the school, described the desperation of seeking news about their children. Students like Weston Halsne, 10, recounted terrifying moments hiding under pews while a friend shielded him, getting injured in the process.
Hospitals like Hennepin County Medical Center and Children’s Minnesota treated the injured, aged 6 to 14. Seven children were in critical condition, with four requiring surgery. The swift response of police and medical teams was praised, but the trauma will linger.
National and local reactions
The tragedy reignited debates on gun violence in the U.S. Leaders like Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Hakeem Jeffries called for action to curb school shootings. Senator Amy Klobuchar highlighted the school’s community ties, noting that “the suffering affects the entire city.” Locals are organizing vigils and fundraisers to support victims’ families.
The Annunciation Church, also a community center, plans to enhance security measures, though details are pending. Archbishop Bernard Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis called for prayers for the victims and the school community’s recovery.
- Gun debate: Political leaders renew calls for gun control.
- Community support: Vigils and fundraisers are being organized locally.
- School security: Local schools review protocols post-attack.
- Religious solidarity: Local churches offer spiritual support to families.
The Annunciation shooting is a tragic reminder of the challenges communities face amid gun violence. The ongoing investigation seeks to clarify Westman’s motives and school connection, as Minneapolis grapples with collective grief.
