A shooting at a Catholic school event in Minnesota left at least two children, aged eight and ten, fatally wounded and approximately twenty others injured Wednesday morning local time. Authorities report that two of the injured are in critical condition.
The incident occurred during a religious service at the Church of the Annunciation, marking the commencement of the school year. Police are investigating a single perpetrator, a 20-year-old male, who allegedly fired dozens of rounds from outside the building through a window. He is reported to have died by suicide following the shooting.
The White House indicated it is monitoring the “horrific situation” and that the FBI responded swiftly to the scene. A statement from President Trump encouraged prayers for all those affected.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey voiced strong criticism towards expressions of “thoughts and prayers” stating, “These children were literally praying. It was the first week of school. They were in a church.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his prayers for the children and teachers whose first week of school was disrupted by the violent act. He acknowledged the widespread response from first responders, clergy, teachers and hospital staff, saying, “Minnesota is heartbroken. We will get through this together”. He urged people to “hug your children”.