• Two children killed; 17 others injured in shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis.
• 23-year-old Robin Westman identified as the shooter; he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
• The incident occurred during morning Mass as children prayed on the third day of school.
• Local officials express heartbreak over the tragedy; investigations into motives continue.
• Community rallies to support victims' families amidst calls for action against gun violence.

A tragic shooting at the Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis left two children dead and at least 17 others injured. The attack took place during a worship service marking the beginning of the school year. The fatalities included an 8-year-old and a 10-year-old, both of whom were shot as they sat in the church. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara described the event as a "senseless attack", emphasizing the community's profound suffering following the incident, according to BBC.

The shooter has been identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who opened fire from outside the church. Armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, he directed gunfire at children and congregation members inside. Notably, Westman had a history of legally purchasing these firearms, and authorities reported that he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Newsweek and ABC News.

The circumstances surrounding Westman's actions remain clouded in mystery, with no clear motive identified. Investigators are currently reviewing information and social media accounts associated with Westman to piece together an understanding of his motivations. O'Hara asserted that the shooting appeared to be a deliberate act of violence against innocent children and worshippers, drawing a strong condemnation from various officials and community leaders, as reported by ABC News.

Following the shooting, immediate medical attention was provided to the injured, including several children who are reportedly in critical condition. Mayor Jacob Frey expressed the community's heartbreak and demanded that political discourse focus on the loss and healing rather than political agendas. He stated, "These kids were literally praying", underlining the juxtaposition of their tragic fate with the sanctity of the church setting, according to BBC and Newsweek.

This tragic incident has prompted widespread mourning and raised urgent calls for action against gun violence within communities. The local and national response continues to unfold as families and friends begin to process the loss, while community leaders emphasize the need for solidarity and support for all affected by the shooting, as conveyed by various statements from officials, according to Newsweek and ABC News.