The FBI is investigating the shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics, director Kash Patel announced on Thursday. Two children, aged eight and ten, were killed, and 17 others were injured, including 14 children and three adults, during the attack on Wednesday morning.
The shooter has been identified as Robin Westman, 23, who grew up in Richfield, Minnesota. Westman’s mother worked at the school. Law enforcement said the shooter used a rifle, shotgun and pistol, all lawfully purchased, and acted alone. The shooter also died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Police said the two children were fatally shot while sitting in church pews. The three injured adults are parishioners in their 80s. Injuries among the surviving victims range widely, but all are expected to recover, according to Minneapolis police chief Brian O’Hara.
Authorities are aware of a manifesto the shooter appeared to want to post on YouTube. Chief O’Hara described the contents as “disturbing writings,” which were taken down with FBI assistance and are under active review. The FBI is continuing its investigation.
Minneapolis mayor Jacob Frey urged politicians to take stronger action to prevent gun violence, while Minnesota governor Tim Walz said he was “praying for our kids and teachers”. President Donald Trump ordered US flags to be flown at half-mast until 31 August.
The community has been left devastated by the attack. Arthur Louie, a local resident, placed flowers at a makeshift vigil near the school, describing the neighbourhood as tight-knit. “Something like this happens, it doesn’t matter what our beliefs are, we’re going to band together,” he said.
