Minneapolis, MN, August 27, 2025 – A horrific shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in South Minneapolis claimed the lives of two children and injured 17 others yesterday, casting a dark shadow over the start of the school year. The attack, which unfolded during an all-school Mass, has left the community reeling and reignited calls for action against gun violence in U.S. schools.

The incident occurred shortly after 8:15 AM when a lone gunman, armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, opened fire in the school’s church, where students from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade were gathered. Authorities report that the suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene. The shooter’s identity remains undisclosed as investigations continue. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called the event a “heartbreaking tragedy,” stating on X, “Our kids deserve to feel safe at school. My heart goes out to the victims and their families.”

According to Everytown for Gun Safety, this marks the fifth K-12 school shooting in the U.S. since August 1, contributing to a grim 2025 tally of 57 school shootings, with 15 deaths and numerous injuries before this incident. Witnesses reported chaos, with some noting a smoke bomb was used, amplifying the panic. “It was like a nightmare you couldn’t wake up from,” one parent shared with ABC News. Police quickly evacuated students and secured the area, with emergency services rushing the injured to nearby hospitals.

Gun control advocates, including Moms Demand Action and March for Our Lives, condemned the violence, urging lawmakers to address the epidemic of school shootings. “No child should fear for their life in a place of worship or learning,” said a March for Our Lives spokesperson. Everytown’s president, John Feinblatt, suggested the use of an assault weapon, calling for a federal ban on such firearms.

The shooting adds to a painful list of school tragedies, including Columbine (1999), Sandy Hook (2012), and Uvalde (2022), highlighting the persistent threat of gun violence in American education. Minneapolis officials are coordinating support for affected families, with community vigils planned to honor the victims. The Justice Department is assisting local law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.

As the nation grapples with this latest loss, the debate over school safety and gun laws intensifies, with advocates demanding urgent reform to prevent further tragedies.

Sources: ABC News, Reuters, Sky News, OSV News