FBI Investigates Minneapolis School Shooting As 'Hate Crime Targeting Catholics'

Last Updated:August 28, 2025, 06:56 IST

Officials are investigating a series of now-deleted YouTube videos believed to be associated with Westman.

FBI has assured to provide timely updates as the investigation progresses (IMAGE: REUTERS/FILE)

The tragic shooting in Minneapolis on Wednesday claimed the lives of at least two children and left 17 others injured. FBI Director Kash Patel described the incident as “an act of domestic terrorism and hate crime targeting Catholics," underscoring the gravity of the attack. He assured the public that the FBI will continue providing timely updates as the investigation progresses.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara condemned the shooting, calling it “a deliberate act of violence against innocent children and other people worshipping." The attack occurred just before 8:30 am local time during a worship service marking the first week of school at Annunciation Catholic School.

Authorities identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who had no significant criminal history. Westman fired dozens of rounds during the attack before taking his own life. Law enforcement recovered a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, all legally purchased by Westman. Additional firearms were found at residences connected to him.

The motive behind the shooting remains unclear as investigators explore all possibilities. The incident has sparked debate about the shooter’s identity. Secretary of the US Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem referred to Westman as a “deranged monster" and highlighted his transgender status in an X post.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey urged the public not to use the tragedy to “villainise our trans community, or any other community out there," stressing that such behaviour shows a loss of “common humanity."

ABC News reviewed driver’s license information listing Westman as female, born June 17, 2002. A Minnesota district court approved a name change in 2020 for a minor born the same date, changing Robert Westman to Robin Westman.

Officials are investigating a series of now-deleted YouTube videos believed to be associated with Westman. According to the New York Post, some videos showed his obsession with mass shooters, including Sandy Hook gunman Adam Lanza.

As the investigation continues, authorities work to uncover Westman’s motives while supporting the grieving community impacted by this devastating tragedy.

Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

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