FBI Calls Minneapolis Church Shooting an Act of Terrorism and Hate Crime

This morning, the investigation continues into the Minneapolis church shooting that left two children dead and more than a dozen others wounded. The FBI has now classified the tragedy as both an act of terrorism and a hate crime.

The attack happened Wednesday morning during mass at the Church of Annunciation, where students were praying during their first week back at school. Officials say 23-year-old Robin Westman fired dozens of rounds from a rifle, shotgun, and pistol — all legally purchased — through the church’s stained-glass windows before taking their own life.

Two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed. Seventeen others, including 14 children, were injured. Survivors described the chaos as they ducked for cover inside the church. One fifth grader recalled hiding under a pew as a friend shielded him from gunfire, only to be struck himself.

Youth Minister Ellie Mertens said her students were terrified, calling the violence “just evil.”

Authorities have executed search warrants at four locations connected to Westman. Investigators say the shooter posted disturbing videos before the attack, showing weapons scrawled with racial slurs, anti-Semitic messages, and threats against President Donald Trump. Hand-drawn blueprints of a church labeled “Annunciation from Memory” were also discovered.

A Facebook post from 2021 indicates Westman’s mother once worked at the church, though she has not responded to requests for comment.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, along with local leaders, condemned the violence and urged action to prevent future attacks. “Don’t just say this is about thoughts and prayers right now,” one leader said. “These kids were literally praying.”

Vigils were held across Minneapolis overnight, as the community mourns and searches for answers.

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