A 23-year-old gunman opened fire on a church in Minneapolis on Wednesday morning, killing two children and injuring 18 others before taking their own life. The attack, which targeted a congregation gathered for the first Mass of the school year at Annunciation Catholic Church, is being investigated as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime against Catholics.
The suspect, Robin Westman, formerly Robert, legally changed their name in 2020 after identifying as a woman, according to court documents. Westman fired through stained-glass windows using a rifle, shotgun and pistol, all lawfully purchased. Police found 120 shell casings at the scene, with rounds from the rifle, shotgun and a jammed handgun.
The victims included 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski, who died in the pews. Fifteen children aged 6 to 15 and three parishioners in their 80s were injured. Authorities stated that Westman had targeted the children, intending to “terrorise as many people as possible.” The church’s doors were locked, a standard safety practice, which prevented the shooter from entering the building.
Westman had previously been a member of Annunciation Church and a former student at its school. The suspect moved between several schools before graduating from Southwest High School in Minneapolis in 2021. Westman had worked at a medical cannabis dispensary until August 16 and had been disciplined for lateness. Police are investigating writings and videos left behind, which express hatred towards several groups and an obsession with other mass killers.
The motive remains under investigation, but officials have stated that the attack was premeditated. The FBI is leading the probe. President Donald Trump offered condolences to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and ordered flags to half-staff. Westman died from a self-inflicted gunshot as law enforcement arrived.
