MINNEAPOLIS — The Minneapolis community is grappling with profound grief following a devastating mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School on Wednesday morning. The attack left eighteen people injured, including fifteen children, and claimed the lives of two young students, shattering families and the local community.
Among the injured is 12-year-old Sophia Forchas. Her story is particularly heart-wrenching: her mother, a pediatric intensive care unit nurse at Hennepin County Medical Center, was on duty as victims from the shooting began arriving at the hospital — unaware that her own daughter was among them. According to a fundraiser set up for the family, Sophia was critically injured in the attack and has undergone emergency surgery. “Her medical team is doing everything they can to stabilize her,” the page reads. Sophia’s younger brother was also present in the school during the shooting but was unharmed.
Father Timothy Sas of St. Mary’s Greek Orthodox Church, the family’s pastor, spent the day with relatives at the hospital, describing Sophia as a devoted seventh-grader deeply rooted in her church and family life.
The tragedy claimed the life of eight-year-old Fletcher Merkel, remembered by his father, Jesse, as a vibrant, curious, and loving child. In an emotional statement, Jesse shared, “Yesterday, a coward decided to take our 8-year-old son Fletcher away from us. Please remember Fletcher for the person he was and not the act that ended his life. Give your kids an extra hug and kiss today.” Fletcher’s passions included fishing, cooking, and sports, and his family described him as a bright light whose presence enriched everyone around him.
Thirteen-year-old Endre Gunter is recovering after being shot twice in the stomach. His family recounted how Endre displayed remarkable courage, asking his surgeon to pray with him before surgery. “While the road ahead is long, we are beyond grateful he is still with us,” they said. “In the face of unimaginable fear and pain, Endre showed strength and faith beyond his years.”
The shooting also injured parishioners attending morning Mass, adding to the widespread trauma felt by the community. Authorities identified the alleged gunman as Robin Westman, formerly Robert Westman, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound as police arrived at the scene. Investigators are continuing to determine the motive behind the attack.
For families like the Forchases, Merkels, Gunters, and many others, the tragedy has left lasting emotional and psychological scars. What was meant to be a day of prayer and school-year celebration turned into an incident of unimaginable violence and sorrow.
Community members have rallied to support the victims, organizing vigils and fundraisers, while emphasizing the need for unity, safety, and healing. The events at Annunciation Catholic School serve as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safeguarding children in schools nationwide.