


Former Student Kills Two Children, Injures 17 in Minneapolis Catholic School Shooting; FBI Investigates Hate Crime
A former student, Robin Westman, killed two children and injured 17 at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. The FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential anti-Catholic hate crime.
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Overview
- A shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to 17 others, including 14 children and three adults.
- The shooter was identified as Robin Westman, a 23-year-old trans-identified male and former student, who died by a self-inflicted gunshot wound after the attack.
- The FBI is investigating the incident as a potential anti-Catholic hate crime and domestic terrorism, examining Westman's manifesto and history of hatred.
- Westman, who legally changed their name from Robert, left behind writings and videos expressing anti-Catholic and antisemitic views, and an obsession with killing children.
- Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey defended the trans community, warning against attacking them, while police noted Westman legally purchased weapons and acted alone.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame this story by emphasizing the shooter's "deranged" and "hate-filled" nature, portraying the act as "domestic terrorism" targeting a Catholic community. They highlight the shooter's disturbing writings and past behaviors, using strong, evaluative language from law enforcement and officials to underscore the incomprehensible evil of the attack.
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FAQ
The shooter was Robin Westman, a 23-year-old trans-identified male and former student of the school.
Two children were killed, and 17 others—including 14 children and three adults—were injured in the shooting. All injured are expected to survive.
The FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential anti-Catholic hate crime and domestic terrorism. The shooter left behind writings expressing anti-Catholic and antisemitic views and an obsession with killing children.
The shooter was armed with a rifle, a pistol, and a shotgun, all legally purchased recently. The attack took place during Mass, with the shooter firing through the stained glass windows into the sanctuary, barricading doors from outside to prevent escape.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey defended the trans community against backlash, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz ordered flags at half-staff in honor of the victims. Police confirmed the shooter acted alone and emphasized legal gun purchases.
History
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