Minneapolis School Shooting Leaves 3 Dead, 17 Injured
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A tragic act of violence shattered the first week of school in Minneapolis when a gunman opened fire on children attending Mass at Annunciation Catholic School.
Armed with multiple weapons, the attacker fired dozens of rounds through the church windows where students were seated in the pews. Two children, aged 8 and 10, were killed, and at least 17 others were wounded.
Police Chief Brian O’Hara described the attack as “absolutely incomprehensible,” calling it a deliberate assault on innocent children and worshippers.
He noted that a wooden plank had been used to barricade some doors and that a smoke bomb was found at the scene, though no explosives were discovered. Authorities believe the shooter, a man in his early 20s with no significant criminal history, acted alone and later took his own life.
Witnesses reported hearing as many as 50 shots over the span of several minutes. “I was shocked. I said, ‘There’s no way that could be gunfire,’” said longtime parishioner Bill Bienemann, who lives nearby. His daughter, a former student of the school, described being overcome with grief and disbelief upon hearing the news.
This tragedy underscores the urgent need to protect children in schools and places of worship. It violates a child’s right to life, survival, and development as well as the right to protection from violence and injury. Every child deserves to grow, learn, and worship in peace, free from harm.
