Minneapolis Church Attack Treated as Hate Crime and Domestic Terrorism

U.S. authorities are treating the mass shooting at the Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis as a suspected hate crime and act of domestic terrorism after uncovering extremist messages linked to the attacker.

The assault took place on August 27, during a school Mass attended by children, teachers, and parishioners. The gunman, identified as 23-year-old Robin M. Westman, entered the church armed with several legally purchased firearms, including an AR-15-style rifle, shotgun, pistol, and revolver. According to officials, Westman fired indiscriminately before turning the gun on themselves.

Two children – 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski – were killed in the shooting. At least 18 others sustained injuries, though authorities confirmed that all are expected to survive. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as students and staff were evacuated while emergency responders rushed to the site.

Investigators have since found that the attacker’s weapons bore hateful inscriptions, including antisemitic and anti-Catholic phrases such as “6 million wasn’t enough” and “Burn Israel.” References to past mass shooters and extremist figures were also scrawled on the firearms, leading police to conclude that the act was ideologically motivated.

A coordinated investigation involving the FBI, ATF, and local police is now examining the shooter’s background, digital activity, and possible connections to extremist groups. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said the evidence strongly indicated bias-driven violence aimed at the Catholic community.

The tragedy has devastated Minneapolis, where vigils and prayer services have drawn large crowds in memory of the young victims. Mayor Jacob Frey denounced the attack as “an assault on our entire community” and renewed calls for stricter gun laws, including limits on assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines. Governor Tim Walz ordered state flags to be flown at half-mast, calling the killings “senseless and heartbreaking.”

The incident has reignited national debate over hate crimes, gun reform, and the rise of violent extremism in the U.S. As investigators probe the attacker’s motives, the city remains focused on mourning its losses and healing from a tragedy that struck at the heart of a school and faith community.