MINNEAPOLIS — A deadly mass shooting unfolded Wednesday morning at Annunciation Catholic Church and School during an early-week Mass, resulting in two child fatalities, multiple injuries, and a broad emergency response.
During a midday press briefing, Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed while sitting in the pews. “Their parents have been notified,” he said. “Seventeen other people were injured, 14 of them children. Two of those children are in critical condition. The coward who fired these shots ultimately took his own life.”
O’Hara described the slaughter as an “unthinkable tragedy” that occurred just before 8:30 a.m., during a worship service marking the first week of school. He said the gunman fired a mix of weapons—rifle, shotgun, and pistol—through the church windows, striking students and worshippers.
The suspect, believed to be in his early 20s and with no known criminal history, died by suicide at the scene, more specifically at the back of the church.
In a clearly emotional address, Mayor Jacob Frey said, “Children are dead. There are families that have a deceased child. You cannot put into words the gravity, the tragedy, or the pain of this situation. Think of this as if it’s your own.”
Hennepin County Medical Center’s emergency chair, Dr. Thomas Wyatt, reported receiving 11 patients—nine children and two adults—four of whom required surgery, though no fatalities occurred at the hospital. Meanwhile, Children’s Minnesota confirmed to the Star Tribune that five children are currently admitted for care.
Statewide and Federal response
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said he had been briefed on the shooting and pledged continued updates. “I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence,” he posted on social media.
On his platform of record, President Donald Trump stated: “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!”
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem added that the Department closely monitors the situation and coordinates with interagency partners.
“I am praying for the victims of this heinous attack and their families,” Noem said.
Outside, the church and school sit in a residential area of southwest Minneapolis. Families and neighbors expressed shock and grief while guardians were waiting to be reunited with their children or to see if they needed to go to the hospital.
This shooting occurred just two days into the school year. It also adds to a wave of violence in the city, with at least three other shootings reported over the past day.
Resources for support
If you or someone you know has been affected by today’s tragedy, help is available. The City of Minneapolis has set up counseling and crisis support at neighborhood community centers. Families can also call 612-673-3000 for city services or contact Hennepin County Cope at 612-596-1223 for 24/7 crisis response.
National resources are also available:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – call or text 988 anytime
- National Parent Helpline – 1-855-427-2736
- NAMI Minnesota Helpline – 1-888-626-4435
You are not alone; support is available for children, parents, teachers, and community members navigating this difficult time.
