In a devastating act of violence that has shocked the Minneapolis community, two children aged 8 and 10 were killed and 17 others injured during a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School on Tuesday morning, August 27, 2025.
The shooting occurred during morning Mass marking the first week of the new school year, when a gunman opened fire through church windows on students and faculty who were attending the religious service. According to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, the shooter was “contained and neutralized” by law enforcement within minutes of the initial 911 calls.
Timeline of the Tragic Events
The shooting began at approximately 8:15 AM CST during the school’s weekly Mass service. CNN reports that the gunman, identified as a man in his early 20s, fired multiple rounds through the church windows before barricading himself inside the building.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) personnel, and Department of Homeland Security officials responded to the scene within minutes. President Trump was briefed on the situation and issued a statement calling the attack “an unconscionable act of violence against innocent children.”
Victims and Community Response
The two children who lost their lives were third and fifth-grade students at the Catholic school, which serves students from preschool through eighth grade. Of the 17 injured, 14 were children and 3 were adults, according to Hennepin County emergency services.
One fifth-grade student told KARE 11 News that “a friend shielded him as shots were fired,” highlighting the heroic actions of young students during the terrifying ordeal. The injured were transported to Children’s Minnesota Hospital and Hennepin Healthcare for treatment.
Law Enforcement Response and Investigation
Minneapolis Police Department responded with a massive deployment of officers, SWAT teams, and crisis negotiators. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety coordinated with federal agencies to secure the scene and begin the investigation.
Police Chief O’Hara confirmed that no explosives were found despite initial reports of suspicious packages. The ATF is conducting ballistics analysis while the FBI leads the federal investigation into the shooter’s motives and background.
School Safety and Security Measures
Minneapolis Public Schools and the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis have implemented enhanced security protocols following the incident. Minnesota Department of Education Commissioner announced additional funding for school safety initiatives across the state.
The tragedy has reignited national debates about gun control legislation and school security measures. U.S. Senate leaders from both parties have called for immediate action on comprehensive gun safety reforms.
Community Support and Resources
The American Red Cross has established a family reunification center at the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board facility. The Salvation Army and Catholic Charities are providing counseling services and emergency assistance to affected families.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and declared a state of emergency to mobilize additional resources for the community. The Minneapolis Foundation has established a victim support fund.
National Impact and Policy Implications
This tragic incident marks the 23rd school shooting in the United States in 2025, according to Gun Violence Archive data. Everytown for Gun Safety and Brady United have renewed calls for universal background checks and assault weapons bans.
The National Education Association and American Federation of Teachers are demanding immediate congressional action on school safety legislation. Congressional leaders are expected to hold emergency hearings on gun violence prevention measures.
As the Minneapolis community begins the difficult process of healing, this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to prevent such senseless acts of violence in our schools and communities.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available from law enforcement and official sources.
