Authorities have identified the gunman in Wednesday’s tragic school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis as Robin M. Westman, 23. The attack, carried out during a morning Mass service, left two children dead and 17 others wounded, shaking both the local community and the nation.
Shooter’s Identity and Background
Law enforcement officials said the suspect may have used both the names Robert Paul Westman and Robin M. Westman. Court documents reveal that in 2019, a Minneapolis juvenile named Robert legally changed their name to Robin. At the time, Robin’s mother, Mary Grace Westman, wrote in filings that her child “identifies as a female and wants her name to reflect that identification.”
Records also indicate that Mary Grace Westman was employed as parish secretary for Annunciation Catholic Church in 2021, according to a church social media post. However, her professional or personal connection to the school beyond family ties has not been clarified, and she has not issued any public statements since the tragedy.
Details of the Attack
Police reported that the gunman, dressed in black and armed with a rifle, entered the school sanctuary during morning Mass and began firing indiscriminately. The assault left two children dead at the scene, while 17 others were wounded, including 14 children.
Emergency responders quickly arrived, and multiple victims were transported to nearby hospitals. Hennepin Healthcare confirmed it received one adult and six children in critical condition, as well as another adult and two children with non-life-threatening injuries. Children’s Minnesota Hospital reported treating six young patients, though no additional information on their conditions was provided.
Authorities stated that the gunman died by suicide inside the school, and confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Investigators have not yet released the names of the child victims, nor have they confirmed whether Westman had any direct ties to students or staff at the school.
Online Footage Under Review
In the hours leading up to the shooting, a series of disturbing videos were posted online under the name “Robin Westman.” The clips, later removed by YouTube, appeared to display handwritten notes, weapons with painted messages, and commentary from the individual recording them. Authorities are analyzing the footage but have not yet verified its authenticity or direct connection to the attack.
Community and National Reaction
The Minneapolis Police Department has stressed that the shooter was “contained” and assured the public that there is no further threat.
The tragedy has drawn swift national attention. Former President Donald Trump confirmed that the FBI has opened an investigation into the shooting, calling it “a devastating tragedy for Minnesota and for our country.” State and federal officials are also coordinating resources to support the victims, families, and community.
A Community in Mourning
As investigators continue piecing together the shooter’s background and possible motives, the Minneapolis community remains heartbroken. Annunciation Catholic School, known for its close-knit parish family, is now at the center of an unthinkable tragedy that has shaken faith leaders, parents, and neighbors alike.
Candlelight vigils and memorial gatherings are expected in the coming days, as residents join together to honor the lives lost and offer prayers for the survivors.