On Wednesday morning, the peace at Annunciation Catholic School in the U.S. state of Minnesota was shattered when gunfire erupted on campus. Students and staff, who had just begun the academic year, found themselves in the midst of a tragic scene.
According to Minneapolis police chief Brian O'Hara, the 20-something suspect entered the school grounds armed with a rifle, a shotgun and a pistol. He fatally shot an 8-year-old and a 10-year-old student before taking his own life in the rear of the church adjacent to the campus.
First responders confirmed that 17 people were injured in the attack, including 14 children. Two of the injured remain in critical condition. The K–8 institution was in its first week of classes when tragedy struck.
In a statement on X, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz voiced his support for the school community: "I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence."
Police say the investigation into the shooter’s motive is ongoing, with authorities sifting through evidence to understand what led to this devastating event.
Reference(s):
School shooting in U.S. Minneapolis leaves two children dead
cgtn.com
