Tragedy as Gunman Kills 2 Children, Injures 17 During Church School Mass in Minneapolis

A horrific act of violence unfolded on the morning of August 27, 2025, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, when a gunman opened fire during a school Mass at Annunciation Catholic Church, leaving the community shattered.

The attack occurred as dozens of children, their families, and parishioners gathered to celebrate the first week back at school.

The gunman, described as a man in his early 20s, opened fire from outside the church through the stained-glass windows, armed with a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol. Witnesses reported hearing 50 to 100 shots as chaos and terror spread inside the sanctuary.

Two young children, ages 8 and 10, were killed while sitting in their pews. Seventeen others were wounded—14 of them children, some as young as six. Several remain in critical condition at local hospitals, where doctors are performing multiple surgeries to save their lives.

Authorities revealed that the attacker died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound near the church’s parking lot shortly after the assault. No shell casings were found inside the church, confirming that the shooter never entered the building. Investigators also discovered that some doors had been barricaded from the outside, pointing to careful premeditation.

Minneapolis Police Chief and local officials condemned the assault in stark terms, describing it as an “act of evil,” “sheer cruelty,” and “cowardice.”

At this time, the shooter’s identity and possible motive remain under investigation. Police have said there is no evidence of an extensive criminal history, leaving questions unanswered about what drove such targeted violence.

Community members have begun gathering for vigils, grieving the young lives lost and praying for the wounded. Faith leaders have urged unity and resilience, even in the face of unspeakable tragedy.

This devastating attack underscores the vulnerability of children and families in sacred spaces. As Minneapolis mourns, the nation once again confronts the heartbreaking reality of mass shootings that continue to devastate schools, churches, and communities alike.