Minneapolis School Shooting Leaves Two Dead, Witnesses Share Gripping Accounts

Wed Oct 22 2025 05:14:18 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A tragic shooting at a Minneapolis church and school results in two fatalities and multiple injuries, eliciting heartfelt testimonies from survivors.

In a distressing incident during a Wednesday morning Mass at a church in Minneapolis, an attacker opened fire, leading to the deaths of two children and injuring 17 others. Eyewitness accounts reveal harrowing moments, including one child being shielded by a friend who was shot. The FBI is investigating the attack as an anti-Catholic hate crime. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, died from a self-inflicted gunshot. Survivors and witnesses expressed their shock and fear, highlighting the ongoing concern over gun violence within schools.

Witnesses to a mass shooting in Minneapolis have described the terrifying scenes after an attacker opened fire on a church where children were celebrating Mass.

Tragically, two children were killed and 17 others sustained injuries in what the FBI is treating as an anti-Catholic hate crime. The shooter, 23-year-old Robin Westman, died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and the motive remains unclear.

Among the survivors was a 10-year-old boy who recounted how his friend shielded him from bullets, getting hit in the process. “I was like two seats away from the stained glass window,” said Weston Halsne. “My friend, Victor, saved me though, because he laid on top of me, but he got hit.” Weston shared his anxiety for his friend's well-being, reflecting on their preparedness for shooting scenarios at school but not in a church setting.

The incident unfolded as Westman approached the side of the Annunciation Church and began firing through the windows with three firearms, leaving local residents stunned by the sound of gunfire. Confusion ensued as some believed it might be construction noise, while others quickly recognized the horrific reality.

This incident has sparked outrage and grief, prompting local vigils as families grappled with loss and fear. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz characterized the event as a reflection of a broader gun violence epidemic across the nation.

Reportedly, Westman had a minimal criminal history, and authorities found a manifesto related to the shooting which was intended for a YouTube release at the time of the attack. The community, alongside national leaders, continues to mourn and call for answers regarding the escalating gun violence affecting children and schools.