MINNEAPOLIS — Authorities have officially identified the suspect behind Wednesday’s tragic attack at Annunciation Catholic Church as 22-year-old Robin Westman of Minneapolis. Police confirmed that Westman lived just 2.5 miles from the church, making the assault all the more jarring for a community that considered the parish a safe and sacred place.
The Attack
The shooting unfolded around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday morning, as parishioners, students, parents, and staff gathered for a traditional back-to-school Mass. Witnesses said the suspect opened fire through the church’s stained-glass windows, sending glass shards flying across pews and filling the sanctuary with chaos and fear.
Tragically, two children lost their lives, and at least 17 others were injured in the onslaught. Victims were rushed to area hospitals with a range of injuries, from gunshot wounds to cuts and bruises sustained during the scramble to escape. Some remain in critical condition.
Suspect’s Background
Westman, according to court records, legally changed his name from Robert to Robin in 2020. Investigators also confirmed that Westman’s mother was employed at the school affiliated with the church, though her exact role has not been disclosed. Police are exploring whether that connection played any part in the motive.
Authorities have not yet announced any prior criminal history, but sources say they are combing through Westman’s social media accounts, phone records, and personal history for clues.
Law Enforcement Response
Police arrived at the scene within minutes of receiving 911 calls. Officers were able to take Westman into custody without further violence, preventing additional loss of life. The firearm used in the attack has since been recovered, and federal partners, including the FBI and ATF, are assisting in tracing the weapon’s origins.
Community Reaction
The attack has left Minneapolis reeling. Parents, children, and parishioners who had gathered for what should have been a day of joy instead found themselves in the midst of terror. Outside the church, families were seen embracing tightly, many weeping as they awaited news of loved ones.
Local leaders expressed both grief and outrage.
- Mayor [Name] called the incident “a heartbreaking assault on our children and our faith community. We must come together to heal and to demand accountability.”
- Police Chief [Name] urged anyone with information to come forward, saying, “This is not just a crime against a parish, it’s a crime against our city.”
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives believe Westman acted alone, but the investigation remains active. Officials said they are not ruling out any motive, including personal grievances, mental health struggles, or potential threats made against the church.
Counselors have been made available for students, staff, and families, while community leaders are organizing prayer vigils and memorials for the young lives lost.
A Day of Tragedy
For many, the attack on Annunciation Catholic Church has shattered a sense of safety in a place of worship. While answers remain elusive, the names of two children who should have been preparing for a new school year now join a tragic list of lives taken too soon.
As the investigation continues, Minneapolis grieves — and demands justice.
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