A gunman armed with a rifle opened fire during an all-school morning mass at Annunciation Church in south Minneapolis on Wednesday (August 27), killing several people and injuring more than 10 others, according to initial reports from the scene.
The incident began shortly before 8:30 a.m. at Annunciation Church and Catholic School, located on the 500 block of West 54th Street. The K-8 Catholic school was holding its daily morning mass at 8:15 a.m. when shots rang out.
Early reports from emergency crews suggest that at least 14 people were shot, including two who were pronounced dead at the scene. City officials, however, have not yet confirmed the number of casualties.
A large emergency response is underway, with local police, state patrol, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) securing the area. The status of the suspect remains unclear, and authorities have not provided information on a possible motive.
Minnesota Governor and Minneapolis Mayor respond
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz wrote on X: “I’ve been briefed on a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School and will continue to provide updates as we get more information. The BCA and State Patrol are on scene. I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence.”
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also addressed the unfolding situation, saying: “I’m monitoring reports of horrific violence in South Minneapolis. I’m in touch with Chief O’Hara and our emergency response team has been activated. We will share more information as soon as we can. Please give our officers the space they need to respond to the situation.”
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the situation develops.
