Minneapolis, MN — A morning mass at Annunciation Church turned into horror on Wednesday when a shooter opened fire, killing two children and injuring 17 others, including 14 kids.
Among the survivors was 10-year-old Weston Halsne, who described how his friend’s bravery saved his life during the attack.
Child Survivor Describes Terrifying Moments
Halsne told reporters that the first sound of gunfire confused him until more shots followed.
“The first one, I was like, what is that? I thought it was just something, then I heard it again. I just ran under the pew, and then I covered my head. My friend Victor, like saved me, though, because he lay on top of me, but he got hit,” he recalled.
Halsne said he and his classmates had practiced active shooter drills in school but never in a church setting.
“We’ve never practiced it in the church, though, only in school. So it was way different.”
Gunman Opened Fire on Children
According to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, the gunman fired through a window as children prayed before entering the church with three firearms. Two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed.
Seventeen others were injured, many critically. Police confirmed that 14 of the victims were children.
The case drew national attention, with NBC News reporting details of how the attack unfolded and how authorities responded.
Shooter Identified, Motive Probed
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the suspected shooter as Robin Westman, who identified as transgender. Patel stated the bureau is investigating the attack as domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics.
Officials also revealed that the shooter scrawled inflammatory messages on gun magazines, including one that read: “Kill Donald Trump.”
Young Hero’s Bravery
While still shaken, Halsne praised his friend Victor, who shielded him during the gunfire.
“He is really brave, and I hope he’s good in the hospital,” Halsne said.
After the chaos, Halsne described the overwhelming relief he felt when reunited with his mother.
“I was very happy,” he said. “I felt relieved after hugging my mom.”
He also credited law enforcement for their swift response:
“The police were really good, because they showed up really quick.”
Community in Mourning
The Minneapolis community has been left devastated by the tragedy, with vigils and calls for prayers spreading across the city. Faith leaders described the violence inside a sacred space as “unimaginable” and urged solidarity with the grieving families.
The investigation into Westman’s motives continues as residents demand answers and accountability for one of the deadliest shootings the city has faced in years.
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