Concerns Raised Over Past Signs of Distress in Minneapolis School Shooter

A former high school art teacher at a Minneapolis school, Sarah Leelee, has shared her experiences with Robin Westman, who, before identifying as female, was known as Bob. Leelee described Westman as an “undoubtedly strange” student and noted that they seemed to struggle to fit in with peers.

“Even back when they went by Bob, I sensed this was a kid in need of assistance,” Leelee remarked, recalling an unusual sculpture Westman created under her guidance, which she shared on social media.

Leelee reflected on Westman’s behavior, stating, “They definitely stood out. While I was into the uniqueness in their art, there was never any indication of violent tendencies.” She emphasized her efforts to connect with Westman, believing that a supportive relationship could be beneficial.

According to Leelee, there were visible signs of self-harm on Westman’s arm, which she reported, expressing her concerns about the need for help. However, she admitted it’s unclear whether the school acted on these signs before Westman’s departure.

“Self-harm signals a cry for help or self-hatred, or perhaps both. It’s clear something is wrong,” Leelee added, reflecting on the challenges educators face in knowing what happens to students after they leave school.

When questioned about whether the warning signs were overlooked, she mentioned a lack of resources and preparation for addressing such issues. “I don’t know if anyone missed anything specifically,” she contemplated, further noting the challenges of navigating student needs within a school context.

While Leelee didn’t disclose the school’s name, she clarified it was not the Montessori institution where she currently teaches. She also confirmed that she had previously worked at St. Thomas Academy, a military-style Catholic all-boys school that emphasized discipline.

Westman changed their name in 2020 and briefly attended St. Thomas Academy after a short stint at Minnesota Transition Charter School, which caters to students who struggle in standard educational settings. It remains unclear how long Westman stayed at St. Thomas before ultimately graduating from Southwest High School in 2021.

Tragically, Westman was responsible for a recent shooting incident that left two young children dead and others injured. During this incident, described as chaotic, Westman fired a weapon that shattered stained glass windows before fleeing the scene.

In the aftermath, some victims remain hospitalized, with their conditions being monitored closely. As a community grapples with the impact of this violence, discussions surrounding mental health support and awareness continue to emerge.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out to the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988 or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org.