A shooting incident unfolded at a Catholic school in Minnesota Wednesday morning, leaving at least two children, aged eight and ten, dead and approximately 20 others injured. Authorities report that two of the injured are in critical condition.
The shooting occurred during a service at the Church of the Annunciation as the school year commenced. Police indicate a 20-year-old male acted as the sole perpetrator, allegedly firing dozens of rounds from outside the building through a window. He reportedly died by suicide following the attack.
The White House stated that the FBI responded swiftly and is currently on-scene. A statement from President Trump indicated ongoing monitoring of the situation and a call for prayers for those affected.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey voiced strong reaction to the tragedy, rejecting expressions of “thoughts and prayers”. He emphasized that the children were literally engaged in prayer during the event, highlighting it was the first week of school and the setting was a church.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his prayers for the children and teachers whose first week of school was impacted by the violence. “Minnesota is heartbroken” he stated on social media. “From first responders to clergy and teachers offering comfort, to hospital staff saving lives – we will get through this together”. He concluded with a message to “hug your children”.
