Minneapolis School Shooting Leaves Two Children Dead, 17 Injured; Suspect Also Dead

Minneapolis School Shooting Leaves Two Children Dead, 17 Injured; Suspect Also Dead

Police Chief O’Hara: “The sheer cruelty and cowardice of firing into a church full of children is absolutely incomprehensible.”

By MinneapoliMedia Staff | August 28, 2025

MINNEAPOLIS — A mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School and Church in south Minneapolis Wednesday morning has left the community reeling after two children were killed, 17 others injured, and the suspected gunman dead.

Security personnel outside the Annunciation school

Scene outside the Annunciation church

The attack unfolded during an all-school Mass just three days into the academic year. Witnesses described chaos as bullets shattered stained-glass windows and pews, forcing children, parents, and staff to flee for safety.

A Deliberate Act of Violence

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara

At a late-morning briefing, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara condemned the shooting as a “deliberate act of violence against innocent children and people gathered to worship.”

“The sheer cruelty and cowardice of firing into a church full of children is absolutely incomprehensible,” O’Hara said.

According to O’Hara, the shooter — a man in his early 20s with no significant criminal history — opened fire from outside before entering the sanctuary. He carried a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, and later died by suicide inside the building.

Police confirmed that the two victims were children, ages 8 and 10. Of the 17 wounded, 14 were children. At least two remain in critical condition. Victims are being treated at Children’s Minnesota, Hennepin Healthcare, and other local hospitals.

Swift Response, Ongoing Investigation

The first 911 calls were logged at 8:27 a.m., moments after Mass began. Minneapolis police, Hennepin County deputies, state troopers, and federal agents with the FBI and ATF responded within minutes.

Authorities said they believe the shooter acted alone. Investigators are searching a vehicle linked to the suspect and probing potential ties to the school or parish. Officials emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the community.

Through the Community

Governor Tim Walz called the violence “horrific,” pledging full state support for victims and families. Mayor Jacob Frey said: “Children should never have to fear for their lives in school or at church. This is a day of mourning for our city.”

Mayor Jacob Frey

Counseling and crisis response teams have been deployed to support students, staff, and parish families.

Annunciation Catholic School, located in Minneapolis’ Tangletown neighborhood, is a long-standing anchor for families in the area. Parish leaders described the tragedy as “heartbreaking beyond measure” and urged unity in grief.

A City in Mourning

Parents rushed to the scene throughout the morning, some reuniting with their children at designated safe locations, others waiting in anguish for official word. Vigils are already being planned across the city.

Chief O’Hara underscored the trauma felt by Minneapolis:

“Our children deserve safety and peace, not fear in places meant for learning and worship.”

What We Know So Far

Annunciation Catholic School Shooting — Minneapolis, Aug. 27, 2025

• Casualties: 2 children killed (ages 8 and 10).
• Injured: 17 wounded, including 14 children; at least 2 remain critical.
• Shooter: Male, early 20s, armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol; died by suicide inside the church.
• When: First 911 call at 8:27 a.m. during an all-school Mass.
• Response: Minneapolis police, Hennepin County, FBI, ATF, and Minnesota State Patrol on scene.
• Police Statement: Chief O’Hara: “Deliberate act of violence… absolutely incomprehensible.”
• Community Reaction: Gov. Walz and Mayor Frey condemn attack; counseling and crisis teams mobilized.
• Investigation: Motive remains under investigation; suspect believed to have acted alone.
• Public Safety: Police confirm no ongoing threat to the community.

Next Steps

Officials are expected to release additional information about the suspect and victims following family notifications. Community vigils are being organized as Minneapolis begins the painful process of grieving and healing.

This is a developing story. MinneapoliMedia will provide updates as more information becomes available.

MinneapoliMedia