Minneapolis Shooting: Gunman legally bought weapons; FBI probes attack as ‘domestic terrorism’

Minneapolis school shooting (Image: AFP)

A gunman opened fire at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, killing two children aged 8 and 10, and injuring 17 others. The shooter also died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, bringing the total number of deaths to three.

The accused, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, had legally obtained a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, and had no previous criminal record, according to an official quoted by the Associated Press.

“The shooter has been identified as Robin Westman, a male born as Robert Westman,” Patel said in the X post, adding that the federal agency will continue to provide updates on our ongoing investigation with the public as we are able.

Robin reportedly fired a rifle through the windows of a nearby Catholic church where children were gathered for Mass during their first week of school. Authorities described the scene as chaotic and tragic.

“This is absolutely incomprehensible,” said the Minneapolis police chief during a press briefing.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched an investigation into the incident, classifying it as both domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics. “We are treating this as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime,” said FBI Director Kash Patel on Thursday.

Updates on the shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota:

The FBI is investigating this shooting as an act of domestic terrorism and hate crime targeting Catholics. There were 2 fatalities, an 8-year-old and a 10-year-old. In addition, 14 children and 3 adults were injured. The… https://t.co/ErFZpSieKS — FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) August 27, 2025

US President Donald Trump addressed the Minneapolis school shooting in a post on TruthSocial, 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!"

Police have not yet released the identity of the shooter or a possible motive, but officials confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the community.

“It's my strongest desire that no state, no community, no school ever experiences a day like this,” Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said.