Two Children Killed, 17 Injured in Minneapolis School Shooting; Gunman Takes Own Life

A horrific shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis on Wednesday morning has left two children dead and at least 17 other people injured, shattering the calm of the first week of school. The gunman, who was heavily armed, took his own life after carrying out the attack at the Annunciation Catholic School, according to officials.

The tragedy unfolded during school drop-off time, just two days after the private elementary school began its academic year. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that the deceased victims were children aged eight and 10. Of the 17 injured, 14 were children, with at least two reported to be in critical condition.

According to law enforcement sources, the shooter was armed with a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol, and is believed to have used all three weapons. He reportedly fired through the windows of the school’s church before moving towards the back of the building, where he ultimately killed himself.

The incident prompted a massive emergency response, with multiple local hospitals, including Children’s Minnesota and Hennepin Healthcare, receiving patients from the scene. Distraught parents were seen comforting their children as they were evacuated from the school, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his horror at the event, tweeting, “I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence.” US President Donald Trump stated that he had been fully briefed on the “tragic shooting” and that the White House was monitoring the situation.

Police have confirmed that the shooter is “contained” and that there is no longer an active threat to the community. However, the motive for the dastardly act remains under investigation.