Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey on School Shooting: 'We Owe This to Our Children'

Tragedy at Annunciation Catholic Church

• 💔 A horrific shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in South Minneapolis, resulting in the deaths of two young children and injuries to 17 others.
• 🎯 The attack, carried out by an armed individual, targeted children during mass in their first week of school.
• 🕯️ Victims included two children killed in the pews and 14 other children (ages 6-15) and three adults (in their 80s) who were injured.

Investigation and Motive

• 🔍 Authorities are investigating the incident as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics, with the FBI involved.
• 📝 The shooter, who is deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot, had reportedly released a manifesto on social media that has since been taken down.
• 👤 The FBI director indicated the shooter identified as transgender, and the Minneapolis Police Department is working with other agencies to uncover all details.

Community Response and Mayor's Plea

• 🗣️ Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey emphasized that thoughts and prayers are insufficient, stating, "We need action."
• 🤝 He highlighted the resilience of the Minneapolis community, praising teachers, law enforcement, and citizens for their bravery and support for the victims' families.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Mayor Frey stressed the fundamental right of children and parents to feel safe at school, church, or daycare, and called for a collective commitment to protect them.

Broader Issues and Call to Action

• 🚨 The incident is part of a larger pattern of mass shootings in the U.S., with the mayor pointing out the prevalence of guns and the need for policy changes.
• ⚖️ He questioned the effectiveness of existing laws like Minnesota's red flag law in preventing such tragedies and called for action at both state and federal levels.
• ❤️ Frey urged for a shift from hate to love, emphasizing the importance of protecting children as the highest priority for all.