Minneapolis, MN — Dozens of cheering residents lined the streets of Minneapolis on Thursday to welcome home 12-year-old Sophia Forchas, who survived a devastating gunshot wound to the head during the August 27 school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School.
After 57 days in the hospital, multiple surgeries, and intensive rehabilitation, Sophia was escorted home in a white limousine led by a police motorcade, marking a moment of hope for a city still grieving.
“Welcome Home, Sophia”
Videos shared by Mayor Jacob Frey on social media showed Sophia’s emotional return, as crowds waved signs, balloons, and banners celebrating her recovery.
“Welcome home, Sophia. Minneapolis loves you,” Mayor Frey wrote on X, joining the motorcade that escorted her through the city.
The 12-year-old was among the survivors of the tragic shooting inside the Church of Annunciation, which left two children dead and 20 others injured during the first week of classes.
The Tragic Shooting
Students had gathered in the church to pray when the gunman opened fire through the stained-glass windows. According to investigators, worshippers tried to escape but were trapped after several exits were barricaded with two-by-fours.
The children who were killed were 8 and 10 years old, both students of the school. Sophia’s brother, who was beside her during the shooting, escaped unharmed.
Her mother, a pediatric critical care nurse, was on duty at Hennepin County Medical Center — the same hospital where many of the victims, including her daughter, were taken — unaware her own child had been caught in the chaos.
According to CNN, doctors described Sophia’s head injury as “devastating,” saying she was “on the brink of death” when she arrived at the hospital.
A Recovery That Defied Expectations
Sophia underwent multiple operations, including the removal of the left half of her skull to relieve brain swelling. Over the next two months, she made steady progress — first breathing on her own, then regaining movement and speech.
“The road ahead for Sophia is steep, but she is climbing it with fierce determination. She is fighting not just for herself, but for every soul who stood by her in prayer,” her family said in a statement.
By September, her doctors described her recovery as “miraculous.”
A City United in Hope
When Sophia was discharged from Gillette Children’s Hospital, she visited Hennepin Healthcare to thank the first responders and staff who had cared for her since the day of the shooting.
Staff members greeted her with hugs and a large blue banner reading “Sophia Strong.”
“She has inspired so many of us and this day is truly a reason to celebrate,” the hospital said in a public message.
Mayor Frey, who met Sophia and her family on Thursday, said he was “thrilled” to see her finally go home.
Community members described her return as a powerful symbol of resilience and hope amid tragedy.
Looking Ahead
Sophia is now back home with her family, recovering in time to celebrate her 13th birthday, according to her family spokesperson. While her journey toward full recovery continues, her courage has inspired countless Minnesotans.
What are your thoughts on Sophia’s incredible recovery and the community’s show of support? Share your views in the comments below.
