The gunman behind Wednesday’s devastating mass shooting at a Minneapolis Catholic school church has been identified as 23-year-old Robert Westman, whose disturbing online trail and weapon markings are now central to the investigation.
Shooter’s disturbing online manifesto
Authorities said a YouTube account believed to be Westman’s uploaded a 20-minute manifesto-style video just hours before the attack. In it, a sketch of the school’s church was stabbed repeatedly while a man’s voice muttered: “I’m going to kill myself.”
Other clips showed Westman’s firearms, a semi-automatic rifle and a shotgun, along with ammunition magazines scrawled with chilling phrases, including “kill Donald Trump” and “for the children.”
Police said they are carefully reviewing the digital trail, which has since been deleted, to piece together Westman’s mindset and possible motive.
Attack during morning Mass
The shooting began around 8:15 a.m., shortly after morning Mass as students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade sat in the pews Annunciation Catholic Church. Witnesses described chaos as bullets tore through the sanctuary windows, forcing children and teachers to dive for cover.
Authorities said two students, ages 8 and 10, were killed in the attack. At least 17 others were injured, with five patients hospitalized and two listed in critical condition, according to medical officials.
Westman ultimately turned a gun on himself and died at the scene, police said. His vehicle, parked near the school, is also under investigation.
Law enforcement and national response
The massacre triggered a massive law enforcement response, with local police, federal agents, and emergency personnel flooding the area.
President Donald Trump confirmed on Truth Social that the FBI was on the scene, while Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem posted a message of sympathy on X, writing that her prayers were with the children, families, and staff affected by the attack.
Westman’s mother was previously employed at the school until 2021, according to KARE 11, though authorities have not linked her work there to his motive.
As investigators continue to examine the shooter’s writings, videos, and weapons, the Minneapolis community is left mourning the tragic loss of two young lives in what should have been a week of new beginnings.
