Leaders across the political spectrum have issued statements of grief and support following Wednesday’s tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, where two children were killed and at least 17 others were injured during a morning Mass.
Ilhan Omar’s Response
Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar (D) released a brief statement addressing the tragedy.
“I am beyond heartbroken over the tragic news of the shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. I am praying for all the families impacted by this horrific tragedy. I will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates,” Omar said.
Her message, which emphasized sympathy and prayers for victims’ families, drew swift attention on social media. Critics argued it was too muted for the scale of the attack, while supporters noted she has often condemned gun violence and called for policy reforms in the past.
Governor Walz Issues Statement
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz also expressed sorrow and pledged state support for the investigation and response.
“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,” Walz wrote on X.
Walz confirmed that state agencies, including the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, are working closely with local police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.
How the Shooting Unfolded
According to law enforcement officials, the shooter opened fire through the stained-glass windows of the church, where children and families were gathered for a Mass celebrating the start of the school year. At least two children were killed and 17 more individuals were injured, many of them students between ages 6 and 14.
Police confirmed the shooter died at the scene and that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Hospitals Treat Dozens of Young Victims
Dr. Thomas Wyatt, Chair of Emergency Medicine at Hennepin Healthcare, provided an update on the condition of survivors. Of the eleven patients treated at his facility, nine were children between ages 6 and 11. Four of those patients required surgery, and several remain in critical condition.
“Up to this point in time, there have been no fatalities related to any of those patients that were brought to our organization,” Wyatt told reporters. He emphasized that teams of pediatric specialists continue to work around the clock to stabilize the most seriously injured children.
Police Chief Gives New Details
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara described how the gunman approached the school building, noting that at least two doors on one side of the structure had been obstructed with what appeared to be a wooden plank. Investigators are still working to determine whether this was an intentional effort to block entrances.
O’Hara also confirmed that officials have not yet determined whether the shooter had any prior relationship with the school, either as a former student or staff member.
National Leaders Respond
The White House said President Donald Trump had been fully briefed on the shooting. In a post on Truth Social, Trump called the attack “a terrible situation” and urged Americans to pray for those affected.
“I have been fully briefed on the tragic shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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!” he wrote.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also weighed in, confirming that DHS is monitoring the situation and coordinating with federal partners. “We are in communication with our interagency partners, and will share more information as soon as it becomes available. I am praying for the victims of this heinous attack and their families,” she said.
Community Shaken
Annunciation Catholic School, which has fewer than 400 students, is known as a tight-knit parish community. The attack during one of the most anticipated events of the school year has left parents and parishioners traumatized. Vigils are already being organized across Minneapolis as families mourn the loss of young lives and pray for the recovery of injured classmates.
What’s Next
As of Wednesday evening, officials confirmed two children had died from the shooting and 17 others remained hospitalized with varying injuries. Authorities continue to investigate the shooter’s motives, background, and potential planning.
The FBI and ATF are assisting Minneapolis police, and more details are expected as investigators review physical evidence and possible online activity tied to the suspect.
For now, Minneapolis joins the growing list of American communities scarred by mass violence. Leaders from Washington to St. Paul have promised action—but for grieving families, the immediate focus remains on healing and survival.
