Minneapolis, MN – Doctors have discovered a bullet fragment lodged in the neck of Weston Halsne, a 10-year-old boy who went viral after sharing the harrowing story of how his friend shielded him during the tragic mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis. The attack, which killed two children and injured others, took place during Mass last Wednesday morning.
Weston, a fifth-grade student at Annunciation Catholic School, experienced a terrifying ordeal as the shooter fired through stained-glass windows. While Weston was shielded by his friend Victor, who was shot in the process, Weston initially thought he was only grazed by gunpowder. However, medical examinations later revealed a bullet fragment embedded dangerously close to his carotid artery.
A Near-Miraculous Escape
Weston’s father, Grant Halsne, described the discovery of the bullet fragment as a “miracle.” The fragment narrowly missed critical arteries, and doctors confirmed that had it traveled any further, it could have resulted in a fatal injury.
“If it [the bullet fragment] went any further, he would’ve died,” said Grant Halsne.
The family is currently waiting to schedule surgery to safely remove the fragment early this week. Despite the delicate location of the fragment, doctors expect the operation to be low risk and anticipate a full recovery for Weston.
- Weston was attending Mass during the shooting on Wednesday morning.
- The shooter fired through side windows aiming at children seated in pews.
- Weston was shielded by his friend Victor, who sustained injuries.
- The bullet fragment was found near Weston’s carotid artery.
- Surgery to remove the fragment is expected soon with a positive prognosis.
The Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The shooting has left Weston traumatized and fearful of loud noises, making it difficult for him to be alone, according to his father. Weston recalled his quick thinking during the attack, running under a pew and covering his head as the gunfire erupted.
“He’s scared of loud noises,” Grant Halsne shared, highlighting the emotional toll the event has taken on his son.
Authorities reported the suspect, a 23-year-old woman dressed in tactical gear, fired multiple shots using three different guns, with approximately 120 shell casings recovered at the scene. She was later found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police have since updated the number of injured victims from 18 to 21, including three children, although it remains unclear if Weston is counted among them.
The investigation into the tragic shooting is ongoing as law enforcement continues to gather information.
Remembering the Courage and Resilience
Weston’s harrowing experience and his friend Victor’s courageous act of shielding him have resonated nationwide. His story underscores the devastating reality of gun violence in schools and places of worship, as well as the bravery shown by children in unimaginable circumstances.