Gov. Walz Responds Amid Reports Of Shooting At Catholic School

Authorities in Minneapolis are investigating a horrifying shooting that erupted Wednesday morning at Annunciation Catholic School, where classes had just resumed for the new school year.

Governor Tim Walz issued a statement acknowledging the tragedy: “I’ve been briefed on a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School and will continue to provide updates as we get more information. The BCA and State Patrol are on scene. I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence.”

Police later confirmed that the shooter had been “contained,” with CNN reporting the suspect deceased. Law enforcement emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the public, but urged citizens to steer clear of West 54th Street between Lyndale and Nicollet avenues.

Families of Annunciation students, who range from Pre-K to eighth grade, were directed to a reunification site on campus.

Multiple agencies, including the Minneapolis Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol, FBI, and federal partners, responded quickly to the scene. Reports indicated that a man clad in black and armed with a rifle opened fire near the church and school grounds, where students typically gather for morning Mass at 8:15 a.m.

Witness accounts noted that dozens of gunshots were heard, with some early reports estimating as many as 50 rounds fired. Authorities have not yet released official details on casualties.

Nearby residents told Fox 9 that they initially mistook the sounds for construction noise before realizing the gravity of the situation.

President Donald J. Trump confirmed he had been briefed and praised federal agencies for their rapid action:
“I have been fully briefed on the tragic shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The FBI quickly responded and they are on the scene. The White House will continue to monitor this terrible situation. Please join me in praying for everyone involved!” the president wrote on his Truth Social account.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem added: “DHS is monitoring the horrific shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. We are in communication with our interagency partners, and will share more information as soon as it becomes available. I am praying for the victims of this heinous attack and their families.”

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also issued a statement claiming he is “monitoring reports of horrific violence in south Minneapolis” and is coordinating with police and emergency officials.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the identity and motives of the shooter. For now, police stress there is “no active threat to the community” but caution residents to avoid the school grounds while emergency teams conduct their work.

The attack, striking just as young children were beginning their school year, underscores the vulnerability of America’s institutions of faith and education — and raises urgent questions about both security and the cultural rot fueling such violence.