Tragic Incident at Minneapolis Church Sparks Debate on Gun Control

On Thursday’s segment of “Anderson Cooper 360,” CNN featured 11-year-old Chloe, a witness to the mass shooting at the Minneapolis Announcement Catholic Church, to call for stricter gun laws in the U.S.

The shooter, identified as Robin Westman, opened fire in the church on Wednesday morning, tragically killing two children and injuring at least 17 others. During her conversation with CNN reporters, a voiceover highlighted Chloe’s prior “thoughts about American guns,” before she expressed a desire to “ban guns.”

“We talk about banning guns, but then it just angers people. Guns are for hunting, not for causing harm. They’re meant to provide food, not to hurt anyone. But, I guess… maybe we should limit what’s allowed,” she said thoughtfully.

Chloe offered advice to her peers who might find themselves in similar situations: “run, hide, fight.” She didn’t want others to be as shocked by violence as many have been. “If they’re near the window, I’d say to duck. Just don’t look,” she added. “And if you’re injured, be thankful for what you have.”

Following the attack, officials stated that Westman had fired from a window during Mass, killing the eight- and ten-year-olds. Before the authorities could intervene, he took his own life with a gunshot wound at the back of the church.

In 2019, Westman changed his name from Robert. Court documents, as reported by the Minnesota Star Tribune, indicate that his mother filed for this change due to his identification with being female. His mother is employed at the Annunciation Catholic Church.

A video linked to Westman, found on a YouTube account, showcased disturbing images of weapons and included statements like “Where is your God?” and threats against public figures alongside a manifesto expressing his struggle with his identity. He mentioned feeling “tired of being trans” and hoped to escape what he described as “brainwashing.”

In the aftermath, calls for stricter gun control have intensified from Democrats and media critics. Some, including former White House press secretary Jen Psaki, expressed their dissatisfaction via social media, stating they were tired of mere “thoughts and prayers” without action.