Authorities have confirmed that a shooting at a school in Minneapolis, which resulted in the tragic deaths of two children and injuries to 17 others, is being investigated as an anti-Catholic hate crime by the FBI. FBI Director Kash Patel announced this development, noting that the shooting is being treated as an act of domestic terrorism.
During a school Mass at Annunciation Church on Wednesday morning, the attacker opened fire through the church's windows. Victims included two young children, aged 8 and 10, who were fatally struck. The perpetrator, later identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, died on the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The police launched an inquiry into whether the suspect fired from outside the building using a rifle, shotgun, and pistol. A smoke bomb was also discovered at the crime scene. Investigators found no bullet casings inside the church, leading to uncertainty about the exact circumstances of the shooting.
In the aftermath, the Minneapolis community has expressed outrage and sorrow. Local officials emphasized that this act of violence against innocent children and worshippers is incomprehensible. Mourners have gathered outside the church, leaving flowers and paying tribute to the victims. Pope Leo XIV expressed his deep sadness over the tragedy, highlighting the profound implications of the attack.
In an emotional press conference, city leaders extended condolences to the families of the victims while condemning the act's cruelty, reinforcing a call to unite against violence and hatred. The investigation continues as officials seek to determine the motive behind this horrifying incident.
During a school Mass at Annunciation Church on Wednesday morning, the attacker opened fire through the church's windows. Victims included two young children, aged 8 and 10, who were fatally struck. The perpetrator, later identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, died on the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The police launched an inquiry into whether the suspect fired from outside the building using a rifle, shotgun, and pistol. A smoke bomb was also discovered at the crime scene. Investigators found no bullet casings inside the church, leading to uncertainty about the exact circumstances of the shooting.
In the aftermath, the Minneapolis community has expressed outrage and sorrow. Local officials emphasized that this act of violence against innocent children and worshippers is incomprehensible. Mourners have gathered outside the church, leaving flowers and paying tribute to the victims. Pope Leo XIV expressed his deep sadness over the tragedy, highlighting the profound implications of the attack.
In an emotional press conference, city leaders extended condolences to the families of the victims while condemning the act's cruelty, reinforcing a call to unite against violence and hatred. The investigation continues as officials seek to determine the motive behind this horrifying incident.
