Key Metrics
13.65
Heat Index-
Impact LevelMedium
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Scope LevelLocal
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Last Update2025-09-07
Key Impacts
Positive Impacts (5)
Negative Impacts (2)
Event Overview
The incident highlights the ongoing threat of targeted violence against vulnerable groups, particularly children. The attacker's history of violent obsessions and hate towards multiple groups underscores the need for vigilant security and mental health intervention.
Collect Records
Shooter Opens Fire at Minneapolis Church, Killing Two Children and Injuring 18 Others
On August 28, 2025, Robin Westman, a 23-year-old attacker, opened fire on students praying at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis, which also houses a school. The attack resulted in the deaths of two children, Fletcher Merkel (8) and Harper Moyski (10), and injuries to 18 others. Westman, who had a history of violent obsessions, used three firearms and a smoke bomb. According to officials, Westman was 'obsessed with the idea of killing children' and expressed hate toward multiple groups, including the Jewish community and President Trump. The shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Westman had previously attended the church's school, and his mother had worked there. The attack was not targeted at a specific religion or group, and a definitive motive may never be known. Westman left behind rambling writings, mostly in Cyrillic letters, and recent YouTube videos detailing his plans.