A shooter filled with anger caused heartbreak in Minneapolis when he killed two students and injured many more. The police disclosed troubled details on Thursday about the shooter’s disturbing past and motivations.
“It is very clear that this shooter had the intention to terrorise those innocent children,” stated Minneapolis police Chief Brian O’Hara.
Robin Westman, a 23-year-old who previously attended the same school, brutally fired 116 rifle rounds through the beautiful stained-glass windows during Mass at Annunciation Catholic School. The children didn’t see this coming while they were just beginning their school year.
Authorities shared a chilling fact: Westman was obsessed with harming children.
Acting US Attorney Joe Thompson remarked on the shocking videos and notes left by Westman. “In short, the shooter appeared to hate all of us,” he added, revealing that the only group Westman admired was mass murderers.
The investigators found a mountain of clues at the church and several residences, but no more weapons or a clear reason behind this horrifying attack. O’Hara described Westman’s obsession with mass killings as “deranged.”
“No evidence will ever be able to make sense of such an unthinkable tragedy,” O’Hara remarked.
Despite the brutal attack, the shooter never actually entered the church. Surveillance showed Westman firing blindly through windows, not seeing the children inside.
Westman’s background painted a picture of deep turmoil. His mom once worked at the parish. He left behind videos and countless pages of complaints, including, “I know this is wrong, but I can’t seem to stop myself.”
Armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, Westman took his own life.
Grieving families speak out
The families of the young victims shared their grief. Eight-year-old Fletcher Merkel was remembered by his family for his love for fishing, cooking, and sports.
“We will never be allowed to hold him, talk to him, play with him and watch him grow into the wonderful young man he was on the path to becoming,” said his father, Jesse, read with tears.
Ten-year-old Harper Moyski’s family called her a shining light and a joyful presence.
Her parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, expressed their deep sorrow: “Our hearts are broken not only as parents, but also for Harper’s sister, who adored her big sister and is grieving an unimaginable loss.”
The family hopes Harper’s memory could push leaders to combat gun violence and the mental health crisis in the country.
The city announced that 15 children, aged 6 to 15, were injured. Even three churchgoers in their 80s got hurt. One child remains in critical condition.
How are we trying to process this profound tragedy? And why is America, unarguably the most prosperous country on earth, witnessing this series of lone mass shootings? What steps do you recommend to help prevent such horrific events in the future? Share your thoughts and let’s start a conversation.Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
