Minneapolis Mayor & Police Chief on Annunciation Catholic Church Mass Shooting

Unspeakable Act of Evil

• 💔 The Minneapolis Mayor expresses profound sorrow and horror at the "unspeakable act" of violence that resulted in the deaths of children.
• 😔 He emphasizes that these were "Minneapolis families" and "American families" suffering immense pain, urging the community to offer support beyond thoughts and prayers.
• 🕊️ The victims were children praying during the first week of school, in church, a place where they should have felt safe and secure.

Tragic Attack on a House of Worship

• 🚨 Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara details the shooting at Annunciation Roman Catholic Church, which occurred during a mass marking the first week of school.
• 🔫 A gunman fired a rifle through the church windows, striking children and worshippers inside.
• 💔 Tragically, two young children, ages eight and 10, were killed, and 17 others were injured, including 14 children, two of whom are in critical condition.

Suspect and Investigation Details

• 👤 The shooter, believed to be a sole suspect, was in his early 20s and died by suicide in the rear of the church.
• 🔍 Authorities are examining information left behind to determine a motive and are searching a vehicle believed to have been used by the suspect.
• 🚫 There were no explosives found, though a smoke bomb-like firework was present.

Community Response and Support

• 🤝 Law enforcement agencies from multiple jurisdictions responded, with officers entering the church to provide aid.
• 🆘 A family resource center has been established to support the affected families.
• ✊ The community is urged to stand with and love the families who have been forever changed by this tragedy.

Investigation Status

• ❓ The investigation is in its preliminary stages, with officials working to gather more details.
• 🚫 The shooting does not appear to be related to any other recent incidents in the city.
• 🗣️ Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.