A shooting incident at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, Minnesota, resulted in at least three fatalities and left 17 others injured, including many children, according to US officials. The attack unfolded on Wednesday morning, just two days after the school had commenced its new academic year.

The gunman, a man in his early twenties dressed in black and armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, opened fire through the church windows while a Mass was underway. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara described the event as “a deliberate act of violence against innocent children,” and confirmed that the shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. “The sheer cruelty and cowardice of firing into a church full of kids is absolutely incomprehensible,” he said.

Among the deceased were two children, aged eight and ten. Of the 17 injured, 14 are children, with several in critical condition, according to hospital reports. The victims were rushed to local trauma centers, including Children’s Minnesota and Hennepin Healthcare. Police confirmed that no explosives were found at the scene, though there was mention of a “sort of firework.”

Eyewitness Recalls Hearing Dozens of Shots

Eyewitnesses described the frightening moments. Bill Bienemann, a local resident who regularly attended Mass at the church, said he heard “dozens of shots.” “I was shocked. I said, ‘There’s no way that could be gunfire,’” he recalled. “There was so much of it. It was sporadic.”

Officials swiftly evacuated the school, a private institution serving pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, with approximately 395 students enrolled. Students and their families were directed to a reunification zone on school grounds to ensure their safety.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his sorrow and concern on social media, writing, “I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence.” He confirmed that the State Patrol and the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension were on the scene and promised ongoing updates.

US President Donald Trump also responded to the tragedy, stating, “The FBI quickly responded and they are on the scene. The White House will continue to monitor this terrible situation. Please join me in praying for everyone involved!” FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the agency’s presence at the site, asking the public to keep all victims and responders in their prayers.

Minneapolis Mayor Calls for Action

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the attack, urging that this moment be met with action rather than just “thoughts and prayers.” “These kids were literally praying. It was the first week of school. They were in a church,” he said, emphasising the need for more concrete measures.

The suspect, whose name has not been officially released, reportedly had no significant criminal record. Social media rumors speculated on the identity and potential motives, including unverified claims of a video posted prior to the shooting. Police have not confirmed these reports.

This shooting adds to a recent surge in gun violence across Minneapolis, with multiple fatal shootings reported in the city within the last 24 hours, including incidents near other schools and public spaces.

Authorities continue to investigate the tragedy, offering support to the affected families and community, as Minneapolis grapples with the shock of this devastating event.