MINNEAPOLIS, USA — Two children were killed and 17 other people injured on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, when a gunman opened fire during morning Mass at Annunciation Catholic School, in what authorities are investigating as a domestic terrorism and hate crime.
Police identified the attacker as Robin Westman, 23, from suburban Minneapolis.
He was armed with a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol, and fired through the church windows before taking his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed it is investigating the case as an act of domestic terrorism targeting Catholics.
“The FBI is investigating the shooting as an act of domestic terrorism and hate crime targeting Catholics,” the agency’s director said.
Among the 17 people injured, 14 were children.
Two remain in critical condition, according to police.
President Donald Trump ordered flags at the White House and on all public buildings to be flown at half-staff until sunset, saying the gesture was “a mark of respect for the victims.”
The shooting has left the Minneapolis community shaken, as families gathered outside the school awaiting word on their children.
Authorities said more details would be released as investigations continue.
