A devastating Catholic school shooting has taken place in Minnesota, leaving two dead and seventeen injured.
The alleged perpetrator has been identified as Robin Westman, who died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The shooting, which took place during the first week of classes at the preschool-through-eighth-grade school, sent shockwaves through the community.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D) responded to the tragedy, saying, “I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence.”
Authorities said the gunman had been “contained” by 9:30 a.m. local time, and that there was “no active threat to the community at this time,” according to a post from the city of Minneapolis on X. Residents were urged to avoid the area so emergency personnel could attend to victims.
Governor Walz shared that he had been “briefed on a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School and will continue to provide updates as we get more information.” He added that the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and State Patrol were on the scene.
In a Truth Social post, President Donald Trump (R) shared that he had also been informed of the incident, calling the shooting “tragic” and urging, “Please join me in praying for everyone involved!”
Texas lawmakers have shared their thoughts on social media.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D) wrote on X: "It's the first week of school for many -- a time that should be filled with joy, not grief." "Those children in Minessota were at Mass when their lives were stolen," she added before calling for an end to gun violence.
"Gun violence has no place in our schools, our churches, or our communities."
Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) also weighed in on X, writing, "this is a tragedy beyond words. I'm praying for all of the victims and everyone affected by this horrific act of violence."
