Two innocent children lost their lives yesterday when evil came knocking at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. An 8-year-old and 10-year-old were gunned down while sitting in church pews during morning Mass. Seventeen others were wounded by a deranged killer who fired dozens of rounds through stained glass windows.
The shooter, Robin Westman, brought three guns to terrorize defenseless kids at prayer. This 23-year-old monster used a rifle, shotgun, and pistol to spray bullets at children aged 6 to 15. The weapons were all bought legally just weeks before this attack. Westman took the coward’s way out with a self-inflicted gunshot.
Our hearts break for the families destroyed by this senseless act. These babies were just starting a new school year, sitting quietly in God’s house. Instead of learning their ABCs, they became victims of pure evil. No parent should ever have to bury their child.
The brave teachers and staff at Annunciation are true heroes. They quickly moved students under pews when the shooting started. Within minutes, they safely evacuated everyone they could. Their quick thinking saved countless young lives.
This tragedy shows why we need better security at our schools and churches. Our most precious places should be protected from madmen like this. We cannot let soft targets become shooting galleries for unstable individuals. Every school needs real protection.
The killer had no known criminal history but clearly struggled with serious mental health issues. Westman had legally changed names from Robert to Robin in 2020. Our society’s failure to address mental illness properly continues to cost innocent lives. We must do better.
Blood donation centers are asking Americans to step up and help the wounded children. Many kids remain in serious condition fighting for their lives. This is how we show our values – by helping our neighbors in their darkest hour.
We will pray for these families and never forget these precious children. Evil may have won this battle, but faith and community will heal this wound. America’s heart is with Minneapolis today.