Washington DC: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched a full-scale probe into the tragic shooting that took place during a Holy Mass at a school chapel in Minneapolis, confirming that the attack is being treated as a case of domestic terrorism with an anti-Catholic motive.
The assault unfolded on Wednesday morning, when students and teachers gathered for Mass. Gunfire erupted inside the church, leaving two students dead and 17 others wounded. Several of the injured remain in critical condition, as local hospitals continue emergency treatment.
The assailant has been identified as Robin Westman, a trans woman, who entered the chapel with firearms and opened fire indiscriminately before taking her own life. Investigators say Westman had a history of extremist online activity. Prior to the attack, she uploaded a video to her YouTube channel, filled with anti-Christian rhetoric, satanic references, anti-Semitic remarks, and racist slurs. The video has since been removed by the platform.
Early evidence suggests that the shooter’s hostility toward the Catholic Church’s teachings on homosexuality may have fueled the attack. According to FBI officials, this ideological motivation elevates the case beyond a hate crime, placing it under the domestic terrorism category. “The evidence points to targeted violence driven by religious hatred,” an FBI spokesperson stated.
Local authorities have heightened security across churches and Catholic schools in Minnesota, fearing possible copycat incidents. The tragedy has reignited debates in the United States over religious intolerance, gun violence, and the vulnerability of faith-based institutions.
Meanwhile, Pope Leo expressed deep sorrow from the Vatican, calling the attack “a grievous wound inflicted on innocent children and the Church community.” He urged global solidarity with the victims’ families and reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to peace and forgiveness even in the face of violence.
The investigation is ongoing, with FBI teams examining digital evidence, the suspect’s communications, and possible links to extremist networks. Authorities are also working closely with religious leaders to ensure protection for upcoming liturgical gatherings in the region.