A quiet morning Mass at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis turned into tragedy when a gunman opened fire. Two children, just eight and ten, were killed as they sat in their pews. At least 14 more children and several adults were injured.
The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, fired through stained-glass windows with multiple weapons before taking his own life. Police Chief Brian O’Hara called it a “deliberate act of violence against innocent children.” Parents and staff rushed to protect students as bullets shattered the sanctuary.
One parent described the horror: “This is terrible. This is evil. I don’t know how you defend against this.” Another child, who survived, whispered to his father, “I don’t feel safe.” Heartbroken families embraced outside the church, many covered in tears and blood.
Officials say the city must now come together in grief and support. As Minneapolis mourns, the haunting question remains: how can children be safe in places meant for peace and prayer?
