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Minneapolis is reeling from a devastating act of violence that unfolded at a Catholic school earlier today, leaving two young students dead and a community in mourning. The incident occurred at St. Eligius Academy, a private religious institution located in the city’s Powderhorn neighborhood. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 8:30 a.m., arriving to find chaos and heartbreak inside the school’s main building.
The Suspect and the Manifesto
The alleged shooter has been identified as Robin Westman, a 22-year-old former student of the school. Law enforcement officials revealed that Westman had posted a lengthy manifesto online just hours before the attack. The document, which is now being analyzed by federal investigators, reportedly contains disturbing references to religious extremism, personal grievances, and apocalyptic themes. While the exact motive remains unclear, early indications suggest that Westman may have targeted the school due to unresolved trauma and ideological beliefs.
Victims and Community Response
The victims, both under the age of 12, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their names have not yet been released, pending notification of family members. Several other students and staff members were treated for injuries ranging from minor scrapes to psychological shock. The school has canceled all classes for the remainder of the week, and grief counselors have been dispatched to support students, parents, and faculty.
Local leaders, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, held a press conference expressing sorrow and outrage. “This is a dark day for our city,” Frey said. “We must come together not only to grieve but to demand answers and ensure this never happens again.”
Investigation and Security Measures
The FBI and ATF are now involved in the investigation, working alongside local police to determine how Westman obtained the weapon and whether others may have been involved. Early reports suggest the firearm used was a legally purchased semi-automatic rifle, raising renewed concerns about gun access and school safety protocols.
In response to the shooting, several schools across the Minneapolis-St. Paul area have increased security measures, including bag checks and additional police presence. Parents are demanding more transparency and accountability, with many calling for legislative action to address gun violence and mental health support.
A City in Mourning
Vigils are being planned throughout the week, with hundreds expected to gather at Powderhorn Park to honor the victims. Churches and community centers have opened their doors for prayer and reflection, while social media has been flooded with messages of solidarity and sorrow.
This tragedy has once again ignited a national conversation about school safety, mental health, and the role of online radicalization. As Minneapolis begins the painful process of healing, the rest of the country watches with heavy hearts and a renewed urgency to prevent such horrors from happening again.