Tragic Shooting at Catholic School Mass in Minneapolis
A devastating attack occurred during a Catholic school mass in Minneapolis, Minnesota, leaving two children dead and seventeen people injured, many of them children. The shooting took place at St. Mary's Catholic Church during a special service marking the beginning of the school year.
Details of the Attack
According to eyewitnesses and law enforcement officials, the shooter fired dozens of rounds through the church windows where children were seated in pews. The two young victims, aged 8 and 10 years old, were fatally wounded during the attack. Following the shooting, the perpetrator took his own life at the scene.
FBI Investigation and Terrorism Designation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has classified the incident as "domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics." The shooter has been identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who had no prior criminal record and acted alone. Investigators revealed that Westman's mother had previously worked at the church where the shooting occurred, though the exact motive remains under investigation.
National Response and Security Measures
President Trump addressed the nation, calling the shooting a "tragic incident" and ordering all flags at federal buildings to be flown at half-staff in honor of the victims. The attack has reignited debates about church security measures and domestic terrorism prevention strategies across the United States.
Community Impact and Support
The Minneapolis Catholic community has been left reeling from the attack, with local churches increasing security measures and offering counseling services to affected families. The incident represents one of the deadliest attacks on a religious institution in recent U.S. history and has drawn international condemnation.