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On Wednesday morning, during a school Mass at Annunciation Catholic School, a gunman opened fire on children and worshippers who had gathered for the start of the school year.
The attacker fired from outside, through the windows, using a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol. The attack left two children—ages 8 and 10—dead and at least 17 injured, including 14 children.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara called the attack "a deliberate act of violence against innocent children who were praying," and underscored the brutality of shooting in a church full of children.
The attacker, described as a man in his early 20s with no significant criminal record, took his own life in the parking lot after the attack. However, his social media accounts revealed his hatred of the Christian religion and some hateful messages he posted on TikTok.
Emergency teams, including SWAT units and medical personnel, responded quickly. Hennepin Healthcare received 11 patients—nine children and two adults—seven of whom were in critical condition and four required surgery. Other victims were treated at Children's Minnesota Hospital.
The shooting comes just a day into the school year and adds to an alarming surge of gun violence in Minneapolis over the past 48 hours, including another shooting at a nearby Catholic school.
State and federal officials, including Governor Tim Walz and President Donald Trump, were informed and expressed their dismay. Walz called the incident "horrendous" and asked for prayers, while Trump indicated that the White House was actively monitoring the situation.
The community remains in shock. Mayor Jacob Frey urged that the tragedy not be reduced to mere "words of support," recalling that "these children were literally praying." He emphasized that children should be able to attend school or worship without fear or risk.
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