A tragic shooting unfolded at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, where a fifth grader shared his harrowing experience during the incident. This article explores the details surrounding the event and the community’s response.
Tragic Shooting at Minneapolis Catholic Church
On Wednesday, networks focused on the harrowing scene in Minneapolis, where a mass shooting occurred during a school Mass at Annunciation Catholic Church. A gunman opened fire on children, resulting in the tragic deaths of two children and injuries to 14 others, including two adults.
Details of the Incident
According to Minneapolis Chief Brian O’Hara, the shooter approached the side of the building and began firing a rifle through the church windows towards the children seated in the pews. The gunman was armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, and ultimately took his own life inside the church.
The Associated Press identified the shooter as Robin Westman, a man in his early 20s.
Survivor’s Account
One of the survivors, 10-year-old Weston Halsne, a fifth grader, recounted the terrifying moments to reporters. He believed the shots were fired through the stained glass windows as he and his classmates ducked under the pews.
“It was really scary,” he stated in an interview reported by CNN and CBS News. “I was just two seats away from the stained glass windows. The shots were right next to me. I think I got gunpowder on my neck.”
When asked how he reacted to the shots, he said, “The first one I was like, ‘What is that?’ … Then I heard it again and I just ran under the pew. My friend Victor saved me, though, because he laid on top of me, but he got hit.” He expressed concern for his friend, who was taken to the hospital but is reportedly okay now.
Community Response
Weston noted that while they had practiced active shooter drills at school, they had never done so in a church setting, making the experience even more traumatic.
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In response to the tragedy, President Donald Trump ordered flags to be flown at half-staff through August 31 in honor of the victims. He expressed his condolences on Truth Social, stating, “I have been fully briefed on the tragic shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The FBI quickly responded and they are on the scene. The White House will continue to monitor this terrible situation. Please join me in praying for everyone involved!”
Governor Tim Walz expressed the heartbreak felt across Minnesota, emphasizing the need for community support in times of tragedy. Former President Joe Biden also shared his sorrow, stating, “No parent should ever have to bury their child. Jill and I are heartbroken…”
Pope Leo XIV conveyed his condolences to the victims’ families, expressing profound sadness over the loss of life and injuries.
Discussion on Gun Control
As the nation grapples with yet another mass shooting, discussions about gun control and the safety of children in schools and public spaces have intensified. Commentators and lawmakers are calling for urgent conversations about preventing such tragedies in the future.
