Authorities are investigating the motive behind a deadly shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis that left two children dead and multiple others injured. The FBI is examining whether the attack could be classified as a domestic terror incident or a hate crime targeting Catholics. Many questions remain unanswered.
Gunman Fired Into Church During School Service
On Wednesday morning local time, a gunman opened fire through the windows of a church affiliated with the school, where students were attending a morning service. He reportedly aimed at children seated in pews. Two children, ages 8 and 10, were killed at the scene. Fourteen other children and three adults sustained injuries.
No Confirmed Link to School Yet
Investigators are working to determine why the shooter targeted the Catholic school during the first week after summer break. Police said they found no immediate link between the suspect and the school or church, but they are still exploring possible connections. CNN, citing a 2017 yearbook photo, reported the suspect may have previously attended the school.
Gun Markings Referenced Trump, Religion, and Children
The 23-year-old suspect died by suicide after the attack. According to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, writings were found on one of the suspect’s firearms, including phrases such as “For the children,” “Where is your God?” and “Kill Donald Trump.” Noem highlighted the messages in a post on social media platform X. It remains unclear whether the gun bearing these messages was used during the shooting.
Police said the shooter carried three legally purchased firearms: a rifle, a shotgun, and a handgun. CNN also reported that video footage showed weapons inscribed with names of mass shooters and antisemitic slogans. Authorities also recovered a notebook with erratic entries. The suspect reportedly wrote that he did not intend to convey a specific message with the attack.
Identity and Online Manifesto Under Review
According to Homeland Security, the shooter identified as transgender. The term refers to individuals who do not identify with the gender assigned to them at birth.
Police obtained video content from YouTube allegedly linked to the suspect, which reportedly shows him at the scene and includes “disturbing text.” Authorities described it as a manifesto. The video has since been removed with the assistance of the FBI and is under expert review.
Source: dpa / Translation: Pop Nexus