Minneapolis Catholic School Shooting Kills Two, Injures Seventeen

A tragic shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis during an all-school Mass, resulting in the deaths of two children and injuries to more than a dozen others. The gunman, Robin Westman, fired dozens of rounds from outside the church before taking their own life. The incident is being investigated as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics, according to FBI Director Kash Patel. The Catholic Diocese of Richmond and other church leaders, including Bishop Barry Knestout and Domonic Salce of the Diocese of Phoenix, have expressed profound sorrow and called for prayers and vigilance to ensure the safety of school communities. Pope Leo XIV sent a telegram offering condolences and spiritual support to the victims, families, first responders, and the broader Minneapolis Catholic community. Additionally, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of the victims.