Minneapolis Church Shooting: Two Children Killed, 17 Injured in Tragic Attack

A deadly shooting shocked the city on Wednesday when a gunman opened fire on schoolchildren attending a church service. Two children were killed, and at least 17 people, including 14 children, were injured, according to police reports.

What Happened at Annunciation Church

The shooting occurred at Annunciation Church in southern Minneapolis during a Mass marking the first week of school. The church is located next to its affiliated Catholic school, where dozens of students were attending the service.

Police Chief Brian O’Hara said the shooter opened fire inside the church pews. Two young victims, aged 8 and 10, died instantly where they sat. Seventeen others sustained injuries, with two in critical condition.

Minneapolis Church Shooting: Two Children Killed, 17 Injured in Tragic Attack

Shooter’s Actions and Identity

Authorities confirmed the attacker, a man in his early 20s, used a rifle, shotgun, and pistol during the rampage. After firing multiple rounds, the gunman took his own life in the church parking lot.

O’Hara stated the suspect had no extensive criminal history and is believed to have acted alone. Investigators are currently reviewing evidence and personal notes left behind to determine a possible motive.

Victims and Hospital Response

Doctors at Hennepin County Medical Center confirmed that two adults and nine children aged 6 to 14 were admitted for treatment. At least four patients required emergency surgery due to severe injuries.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his grief, writing on X:

“Minnesota is heartbroken. From officers responding to hospital staff saving lives, we will get through this together. Hug your kids close.”

Parents, Panic, and Aftermath

Video footage showed frightened parents rushing away from the scene, clutching their children dressed in green school uniforms. The shooting has deeply shaken the community and reignited nationwide debates about gun violence in schools.

America’s Ongoing Gun Violence Crisis

The Minneapolis tragedy adds to a long list of mass shootings across the United States. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been at least 287 mass shootings so far this year, each involving four or more victims.

In 2022, a gunman killed 19 students and two teachers in Uvalde, Texas, marking one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. Gun violence remains a deeply divisive issue, with federal efforts to restrict firearms repeatedly stalled in Congress.

Officials Call for Action

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the act:

“Don’t just say ‘thoughts and prayers.’ These kids were literally praying. They should be learning, playing, and feeling safe in school and church.”

Former U.S. President Donald Trump also commented, saying he was briefed on the tragedy and urged Americans to pray for the victims.

Community in Mourning

As investigators continue their work, Minneapolis faces a wave of grief and fear. The city is also grappling with several recent false reports of active shooters on college campuses, adding to heightened anxiety among students and parents.