Minneapolis, MN – The investigation into the tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis continues as the mother of the shooter remains uncooperative with authorities. The devastating incident left two children dead and 18 others injured, including 15 children, stirring widespread grief and confusion in the community.
As law enforcement works to unravel the motive behind the horrific attack, the shooter’s mother, Mary Grace Westman, has opted not to speak with investigators and has instead retained criminal defense attorney Ryan Garry. With dozens of interviews conducted among family, friends, and witnesses, authorities hope to piece together a clearer picture of what led to this nightmare.
Legal Representation and Silence from Shooter’s Mother
Mary Grace Westman’s refusal to cooperate has added complexity to the ongoing investigation. Her attorney, Ryan Garry, explained to Fox News that she is “completely distraught about the situation and has no culpability but is seeking an attorney to deal with calls like this.” This move suggests a desire for privacy amid the media storm rather than an admission of any wrongdoing.
Despite persistent efforts, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed in a Thursday press conference that authorities have yet to secure an interview with Westman. The chief emphasized continued attempts to gain insight from her as part of gathering comprehensive background information.
Connections Between the Shooter and the Parish
The investigation has uncovered important details linking the shooter, 23-year-old Robin Westman, to the church community. Official statements reveal that Westman attended Mass there and was a student at the school associated with the parish. Moreover, the shooter’s mother was formerly employed by the parish, deepening the connection to the location of the attack.
Regarding the shooter’s residence, police have identified three addresses but have yet to confirm where Westman lived immediately before the tragedy. This element remains a key focus as investigators search for motive and context.
Disturbing Manifesto and FBI Assessment
Authorities discovered a manifesto linked to Westman, which was intended for release on YouTube. The video, since removed and under scrutiny, contains troubling anti-religious and hate-filled rhetoric. FBI Director Kash Patel described the attack as a “barbaric” act of domestic terrorism motivated by hateful ideology.
The manifesto reportedly includes anti-Catholic sentiments as well as violent language directed toward Jewish people, advocating for statements like “Israel must fall” and “Free Palestine,” alongside offensive Holocaust references. This ominous content is pivotal in understanding the extremist motivations behind the shooting.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
Police have interviewed many individuals connected to the shooter, including relatives, friends, and eyewitnesses, as part of a comprehensive probe. While the shooter’s father has been contacted by investigators, authorities have not publicly disclosed details about his cooperation or residence status of the shooter.
The church shooting has left the community reeling, with grief evident especially among families of the young victims. Minneapolis Police and federal agencies remain committed to uncovering all factors that contributed to the tragedy.
- Date of Shooting: Wednesday morning (Exact date not specified)
- Location: Annunciation Catholic Church, Minneapolis
- Fatalities: 2 children
- Injuries: 18 people, including 15 children
- Shooter: Robin Westman, 23 years old
- Investigation Status: Ongoing with multiple interviews and evidence analysis
- Legal Representation: Shooter’s mother retained attorney Ryan Garry
“She is completely distraught about the situation and has no culpability but is seeking an attorney to deal with calls like this.” – Ryan Garry, Criminal Defense Attorney
“I know we have not been successful in talking to the shooter’s mother, yet, at this time. But there continue to be efforts made to get that done.” – Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara
“The FBI’s investigation suggests this was an act of domestic terrorism motivated by a hate-filled ideology.” – FBI Director Kash Patel
For more detailed updates on the ongoing investigation, visit the original report on Fox News.
How the Community is Moving Forward
The tragic loss and trauma experienced by the Minneapolis community has sparked calls for healing and awareness around gun violence and extremist ideologies. Local leaders, law enforcement, and residents continue to seek ways to support victims’ families and ensure such incidents are prevented in the future.