Shortly after a tragic shooting at a Catholic church in Minneapolis, where two children lost their lives and 17 others were injured, a touching vigil was held at a nearby school gym. Hundreds gathered, finding solace in each other’s embrace, wiping away tears as they mourned alongside Governor Tim Walz and religious leaders.
Archbishop Bernard Hebda, addressing the somber crowd at the Academy of Holy Angels, praised the courageous acts of students who shielded their classmates during the terrifying attack. He emphasized the bravery, love, and unity displayed in the face of tragedy.
The heartbreaking incident unfolded when 23-year-old Robin Westman, armed with multiple weapons, fired multiple rounds at children attending Mass at the Annunciation Catholic School. After the rampage, the shooter took his own life. Among the casualties were two young children aged 8 and 10, while 14 other children and three elderly parishioners sustained injuries but were expected to recover.
Witnesses recounted the harrowing moments as chaos erupted in the church, with Rev. Dennis Zehren recalling the abrupt transition from a Psalm reading to shouts of warning and gunfire. Brave actions of students, such as fifth-grader Weston Halsne, who shielded his friend from harm, highlighted moments of courage amid the tragedy.
The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, with authorities looking into possible connections to domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics. Social media posts and videos by the alleged shooter are being scrutinized for clues.
Amid the sorrow, authorities highlighted the swift response of law enforcement and the heroic efforts of teachers and children who acted to protect each other. The community, deeply affected by the violence, received support from various sources, including condolences from Pope Leo XIV and flags flown at half-staff by orders of Governor Walz and President Donald Trump.