Local authorities, alongside the FBI, are reviewing video footage and writings from the individual involved in a tragic shooting at Announcement Catholic School in Minneapolis, as reported on Thursday.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara emphasized their commitment to uncovering the potential motives behind the attack. “We’re doing everything we can, following all the evidence,” he noted. He mentioned encountering “literally hundreds of pieces of evidence,” although no additional firearms were uncovered. The evidence collection process is expected to aid the FBI significantly.
Four search warrants have already been executed at locations linked to the shooter, and officers are working to secure an electronic warrant to examine the shooter’s digital devices.
O’Hara commented on the typical patterns seen in active shooter incidents, saying that the evidence has led them to recognize classic red flags. He also pointed out that the shooter seemed to harbor significant animosity towards various groups, yet it’s unclear if this connects specifically to the church.
Interestingly, the shooter was due to release a manifesto on YouTube coinciding with the incident; however, that video has since been removed and is under investigation. Messages found in gun magazines included threats like “kill Donald Trump.”
Authorities have identified 23-year-old Robin Westman as the shooter, noting he was a former student and that his mother worked within the parish.
On Wednesday, Westman opened fire during a Mass at the school, where children had just returned. Armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, he tragically killed two children, injured 14 others, and harmed three adults. O’Hara reported that while some victims remain in critical condition, all are expected to recover.
Moreover, he mentioned that the church doors were locked after Mass commenced, which “saved countless lives.” Ultimately, Westman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
