On the morning of August 27, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, resulting in the deaths of two children and injuries to 17 others. The attack took place during a church service attended by nearly 200 students and parishioners, marking one of the deadliest school-related incidents in Minnesota’s history.

What Happened

At approximately 8:30 a.m., 23-year-old Robin Westman opened fire through the windows of Annunciation Church using a rifle, shotgun, and pistol—all legally purchased weapons2. The victims were seated in pews for a Mass held during the first week of school. Westman never entered the building but fired dozens of rounds from outside, targeting children and elderly worshippers.

Westman died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities later discovered a manifesto and disturbing online content linked to the shooter, prompting the FBI to classify the incident as both a hate crime and an act of domestic terrorism.

Victims and Injuries

• Two children were killed: 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and a 10-year-old student whose name has not been publicly confirmed.

• Fourteen children between the ages of 6 and 15 were injured, along with three elderly parishioners in their 80s.

• All injured victims are expected to survive, though several were initially in critical condition.

Shooter Background

Westman was a former student of Annunciation Catholic School and reportedly harbored resentment toward various groups, according to law enforcement. Investigators noted an obsession with previous mass shootings and a desire for notoriety. Westman’s mother had previously worked at the parish, though no direct connection to current staff or students has been confirmed.

Community Response

Multiple vigils have been held across Minneapolis, including a candlelight gathering at Lynnhurst Park organized by gun violence prevention groups. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Senator Amy Klobuchar attended memorial events and called for increased school safety measures.

Mental health services have been mobilized for students, families, and staff. The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis is working closely with local officials to support recovery efforts.

Ongoing Investigation

The FBI and Minneapolis Police Department continue to investigate the shooter’s motives and digital footprint. Authorities are also reviewing school safety protocols and considering broader implications for domestic terrorism prevention.

Sources:

• Yahoo News – FBI investigating shooting as hate crime

• MSN – Father of Fletcher Merkel speaks out

• ABC News – Details on victims and shooter

• Newsday – Timeline and hospital updates

• MSN – Initial police response

• Catholic News Agency – Live updates and official statements

• Fox News – Community and national reactions

• ABC News – Shooter’s background and motive