A tragic shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis has left three people dead and 17 others injured, authorities confirmed on Wednesday. The assailant, dressed in black and believed to be in his early 20s, opened fire during a Mass at Annunciation Catholic School, before turning the gun on himself.
The shooter unleashed dozens of rounds through the church windows, targeting the students attending the service. Among the fatalities were two children, with numerous others wounded. The shooter was armed with a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol, according to officials.
“This senseless act of brutality, aimed at innocent children and worshippers, is beyond comprehension,” remarked Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara during a press briefing.
The horrifying event transpired just two days after the new school year commenced at Annunciation Catholic School, a private elementary institution in a residential section of Minnesota’s largest city.
Footage from local news outlets showed frantic parents guiding their children to safety beneath police tape as officers and emergency responders secured the scene.
Police stated that the gunman, whose identity is yet to be released, had no significant criminal record. Authorities are currently examining several online videos to determine any connection to the shooter.
Area hospitals reported treating 15 children and two adults, many suffering from gunshot wounds.
The incident comes amid a backdrop of frequent school shootings in the United States, fueling ongoing debates on gun legislation and educational institution safety. More than 140 such occurrences have been documented this year alone, according to the K-12 School Shooting Database.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, during a press conference, expressed his anger over the shooting. “These children were literally in a moment of prayer during their first week of school,” he said, calling for more than just thoughts and prayers.
The City of Minneapolis assured the community there is no ongoing threat, as the shooter is no longer active. They advised parents of affected students to proceed to a designated reunification zone at the school.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his condolences and stated he would keep the public informed as more information becomes available. “My thoughts are with the children and teachers affected by this horrific violence,” he shared in a post.
President Donald Trump also addressed the nation, indicating that the White House is closely monitoring the situation. He confirmed that the FBI was swiftly dispatched to the site. “Please join me in praying for everyone involved,” Trump urged.
This confirmed shooting follows a series of false alarms about active shooters at various U.S. college campuses as students return from their summer holidays.
