A letter posted online shortly before the attack revealed the mental state of 23-year-old Robin Westman, who wrote of feeling “corrupted by this world” and overwhelmed by hopelessness. Investigators believe the message was written just hours before he opened fire at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis on August 27, 2025.

Attack Details
During a morning school Mass, Westman—dressed in black and armed with a rifle—began shooting from outside the sanctuary, firing through stained-glass windows into a congregation of students, teachers, and families. Witnesses described chaos as gunfire erupted inside what was meant to be a moment of prayer and reflection.

Two students, Emily Carlson and Jacob Ruiz, were killed. Seventeen others were wounded, including 14 children. Two of the victims remain in critical condition. Police responded within minutes and secured the area, but Westman fatally shot himself before officers could be taken into custody.

Investigation and Community Response
Authorities are examining Westman’s online activity and personal writings in an effort to understand the factors behind the attack. Officials confirmed there is no ongoing threat.

The tragedy has left the parish and surrounding community in mourning. Vigils are being held in memory of the victims, while counselors have been made available to students and parishioners coping with the trauma.

Religious and civic leaders have urged compassion and solidarity as families grieve the loss of two young lives and pray for the recovery of those injured.