Principal Writes to Vice President After Church Shooting

The principal of Annunciation School reached out to Vice President Usha Vance following a tragic shooting incident that occurred at the church last week.

Matthew DeBoer shared a harrowing account of how his three children were on school grounds during an active shooter situation, where gunfire shattered windows in the sanctuary and nearby areas.

In his letter, DeBoer conveyed a sense of urgency, stating, “We are at war,” as he appealed for the Vice President’s intervention.

“This doesn’t have to keep happening…it shouldn’t be easier for this shooter to get a gun than for my child to see a pediatrician,” he wrote, referencing the difficulty of gun access juxtaposed with health care.

He pointed out the disturbing reality of a shooter managing to fire 116 rounds within a short span, emphasizing the serious nature of the crisis while making a comparison to everyday activities like ordering food.

The assailant, 23-year-old Robin Westman, used three firearms during the attack, which resulted in the death of two children and injuries to 18 others.

DeBoer called on Vance to foster unity across the political spectrum, insisting that gun violence transcends party lines and poses a serious threat to human life.

“Participate in humility. Participate in love. We must avoid divisive rhetoric,” he urged, reminding everyone that we are all intertwined in this human experience.

“We are all made in the image of God—politicians, parents, victims, and even the shooters,” DeBoer reflected.

Amid fears about the school’s future, he expressed forgiveness towards the shooter and encouraged others to seek reconciliation through faith.

“Let’s work towards a hopeful future together,” he stated, emphasizing unity among all demographics.

While the Vice President’s office has yet to comment on the letter, Vance did visit the shooting site recently and paid respects to those affected by the violence.