In a devastating act of violence on August 27, 2025, a gunman opened fire inside the Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, killing two children and injuring 17 others. The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, launched the attack during a morning Mass attended by students and parishioners. Armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, Westman fired through stained-glass windows into the pews where children were seated, causing chaos and horror in what was meant to be a peaceful worship service.
Law enforcement officials later confirmed that Westman died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Prior to the attack, Westman had posted disturbing videos online showcasing weapons inscribed with inflammatory and hate-filled slogans. Among the messages were “NUKE INDIA ????????,” “Israel must fall ????????,” and “Kill Donald Trump ????????,” alongside references to notorious mass shooters and antisemitic slurs. Authorities are treating the incident as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics.
“NUKE INDIA ???????? ,” “Israel must fall ????????,” & “Kill Donald Trump ????????.”, are the inscriptions on 22 year old Robin Westman's weapon & gear, he un-alive 2 kids & wounded 17 other inside a Minneapolis church in USA. pic.twitter.com/V8KE6JQb4g
— ???????????????????? ???????????????????????? (@Kunal_Biswas707) August 27, 2025
The victims included two children, aged 8 and 10, who were killed instantly, and 17 others—14 students and three elderly parishioners—who sustained injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to trauma-related complications. Survivors described scenes of terror and bravery, with one child recounting how a friend shielded him during the gunfire. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, and the wounded were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. A vigil was held later that evening to honor the victims and support the grieving community.
Investigators are now combing through Westman’s digital footprint, including a manifesto filled with violent fantasies and admiration for past mass shooters. The weapons used in the attack were reportedly purchased legally in recent months. As Minneapolis reels from this tragedy, officials and community leaders are calling for renewed efforts to address gun violence, online radicalization, and the protection of vulnerable spaces such as schools and places of worship.