A quiet afternoon in Minneapolis was shattered by violence on Thursday when a gunman opened fire outside a Catholic church and school, resulting in the death of a volunteer and sending the local community into lockdown.
The incident occurred at the Church of Gichitwaa Kateri in the city's Elliot Park neighbourhood. Police confirmed that the suspected shooter, 35-year-old Shannon Gooden, was later found dead in a vehicle from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Terrifying Scene Unfolds
According to eyewitness accounts and police reports, the shooting began around 1:15 PM local time. The gunman specifically targeted a 61-year-old volunteer who was working outside the church premises. The victim, whose identity has not yet been officially released, was pronounced dead at the scene.
"The suspect specifically targeted the victim and then fled the scene," Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara stated during a press conference. "This appears to have been a targeted attack rather than a random act of violence."
Community Lockdown and Police Response
Following the shooting, nearby schools and buildings were immediately placed on lockdown as police launched a massive manhunt for the suspect. Parents received urgent notifications advising them to avoid the area while law enforcement secured the scene.
The swift police response led to the discovery of Gooden's body in a vehicle approximately two hours after the initial shooting. Authorities confirmed he died from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
History of Violence
Court records reveal that Shannon Gooden had a troubled past with a history of violent behaviour. In 2008, he was convicted of assault with a dangerous weapon after threatening a woman with a knife and throwing rocks at her vehicle. His criminal record had prevented him from legally possessing firearms.
Despite this prohibition, Gooden had petitioned the courts multiple times to restore his gun rights, arguing that he had reformed his life and needed firearms for protection. All these requests were denied by judges who cited the seriousness of his prior convictions.
Community in Mourning
The Church of Gichitwaa Kateri serves primarily Native American Catholics and operates a K-8 school with approximately 60 students. The community has been left reeling from the tragedy, with counselling services being arranged for students and staff.
Archbishop Bernard Hebda of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis expressed his condolences, stating: "Our hearts are heavy with the news of this senseless act of violence. We pray for the victim, their family, and everyone affected by this tragedy."
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the motive behind the targeted attack and how Gooden obtained the firearm despite his prohibited status.
