Who is Robin Westman? What We Know About the Minneapolis School Shooting Suspect

On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, tragedy struck in Minneapolis when a gunman opened fire outside Annunciation Catholic School and Church. Police identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman. The attack killed two children, ages 8 and 10, and injured 17 others.

Authorities said Westman fired through the church windows during a morning service. Children and worshippers were inside when the bullets ripped through the pews. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara described the crime as a “deliberate act of violence” and called Westman a “coward.”

Who is Robin Westman?

According to records, Robin Westman was born on June 17, 2002. Driver’s license details confirm that Westman identified as female. Court records show that in 2020, a judge approved a name change from Robert to Robin to match her gender identity.

Police revealed that Westman had no known criminal history. Investigators are now studying her journals, weapons, and online activity to search for a motive.

Family Connection to the Church

Westman’s mother, Mary Grace Westman, worked at the same church until 2021. She was first hired as an administrative assistant in 2016 and later served as a parish secretary. Church bulletins and social media posts confirm her five years of service before retirement.

YouTube Videos Under Review

Law enforcement is also looking into disturbing YouTube videos believed to be linked to Westman. The clips, which have since been removed, showed handwritten journals filled with drawings of guns, violent words, and references to other school shootings.

Officials said one page even contained a bird’s-eye sketch of Annunciation Church’s interior. The shooter also appeared to express depression and wrote apologies to family members.

Weapons Used in the Attack

Police confirmed that Westman used three firearms in the shooting — a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol. All weapons were bought legally and “purchased recently.” More firearms were later found at addresses connected to her.

O’Hara said Westman fired from all three weapons during the attack. Alongside the guns, police also discovered a smoke bomb at the scene.

Community Reaction

The attack shocked the Minneapolis community. Parents rushed to reunite with children outside police barricades after the chaos. Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the shooting and reminded the public not to target any community based on hate.

“Kids died today,” Frey said. “This needs to be about them, and about supporting their families.”

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also reacted strongly, calling Westman a “deranged monster” and urging the country to pray for healing.

The investigation is still active, and officials are working to understand the reasons behind this horrific act.