What we know about the mass shooting at Annunciation Church

A shooting at Annunciation Church in south Minneapolis left two children dead and 19 others injured during a morning Mass aimed at students. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, died by suicide shortly after the attack, which police have labeled as a hate crime against Catholics. Witnesses described chaos as the shooter fired through stained-glass windows, with adults shielding children during the ordeal. The church's locked doors likely prevented the shooter from entering and causing more harm. Police recovered 116 spent rifle rounds and three shotgun shells, and the shooter had no prior criminal history.

A manifesto linked to Westman was discovered, but investigators have not established a clear motive for the attack. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey emphasized the tragedy of children praying during the incident, highlighting the emotional impact on the community. Local authorities are pledging to enhance security measures and support for the affected families.