Robin Westman, Transgender Woman and Former Student, Identified as Minneapolis Church Shooter

Robin Westman, Transgender Woman and Former Student, Identified as Minneapolis Church Shooter

Minneapolis, August 29, 2025 — A tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis on August 27 left two children dead and 18 others injured. Authorities have identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, a transgender woman and former student of the school. Westman died by suicide at the scene.

The Attack

Police at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on August 27, 2025 after mass shooting: Courtesy - Chad Davis

At approximately 8:30 a.m., Westman opened fire through stained-glass windows during a morning Mass using a legally purchased rifle, shotgun, and pistol. Exits were barricaded with lumber before Westman took their own life in the parking lot.

Victims

The victims included 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski, both students at Annunciation School. Fifteen other children, aged 6 to 15, and three elderly parishioners were injured. All survivors are expected to recover.

Manifesto and Online Content

In the hours before the attack, Westman posted two videos on YouTube containing a manifesto. The writings expressed admiration for past mass shooters and included firearms marked with extremist messages such as “Kill Donald Trump” and antisemitic slogans. Authorities are reviewing these materials to understand Westman’s motives.

Background

Westman graduated from Annunciation School in 2017 and legally changed their name from Robert to Robin in 2020, stating they “identify as a female.” Court records show Westman had no prior criminal history. Westman’s mother, Mary Grace Westman, worked as a secretary at the church until 2021.

Community Response

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor Tim Walz have called for unity and support. Mayor Frey emphasized the importance of community solidarity and cautioned against scapegoating the transgender community. Governor Walz ordered flags lowered to half-staff and pledged state support for victims and families. Vigils and counseling services are being provided for students, staff, and parishioners.

Summary Table

This tragedy underscores how mental illness, extremist ideology, and gun access can converge in devastating ways. As the community grieves, Minneapolis is also confronting deeper questions about safety, inclusion, and collective resilience.

MinneapoliMedia