Minneapolis was rocked by a devastating shooting rampage on Monday, leaving a community in mourning and raising urgent questions about gun violence and mental health.
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner has identified the perpetrator as 35-year-old Robin Westman, who was fatally shot by police after opening fire in a residential building, killing three individuals and critically wounding two others.
A Community Under Siege
According to official reports, the tragedy unfolded when Minneapolis Police Department officers responded to emergency calls around 5:15 pm local time. Upon arrival, they encountered a scene of chaos as Westman actively fired upon residents within the building.
"Officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, but the suspect continued their assault, leaving police with no alternative but to use deadly force," stated Police Chief Brian O'Hara during a press conference.
The Victims and the Aftermath
The medical examiner confirmed the identities of those killed as 68-year-old Thomas Holton, 59-year-old Thomas Traska, and 66-year-old Thomas Marsh. Two additional victims were transported to hospital with critical injuries, fighting for their lives.
Witnesses described moments of terror as shots echoed through the building. "We heard popping noises that just didn't stop," one resident told reporters. "Nobody knew what was happening or where to hide."
Shooter's Background and Investigation
Authorities confirmed that Westman identified as transgender, though they emphasized that this aspect forms just one part of a complex investigation into the motives behind the attack. Police have not yet established a definitive motive for the shooting.
Records indicate Westman had previous encounters with law enforcement, including a 2016 arrest for theft. Neighbors described the shooter as a largely quiet individual who had lived in the building for several years.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has joined the investigation, working to piece together the sequence of events that led to this tragedy. Community leaders have called for calm and unity as the city processes the shocking violence that has left permanent scars on the Minneapolis community.
