The city of Minneapolis was shaken on Wednesday after police confirmed an active shooter situation at Annunciation Church, located at 509 W. 54th Street in south Minneapolis. According to initial reports, the incident began during the early afternoon hours, prompting a massive emergency response involving dozens of police officers, state troopers, and paramedics.
Eyewitness accounts and early information shared with local media indicate that the gunman opened fire inside the church premises, where both parishioners and students from the nearby Annunciation Catholic School were present. Law enforcement officials revealed that several victims were struck by gunfire, including children, though the full extent of injuries has not yet been released. Emergency crews were seen rushing to provide medical care at the scene before transporting the wounded to area hospitals.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz quickly addressed the unfolding tragedy, stating that he had been briefed by law enforcement agencies and that specialized units from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and the Minnesota State Patrol were deployed to assist Minneapolis police. In a statement posted to social media, the governor wrote: “I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence.” His message captured the deep shock felt across the community, especially given that the shooting targeted a location strongly tied to both faith and education.
Local station KARE 11 confirmed through reporter Lou Raguse that police are treating the situation as an active shooter emergency, and that officers remain on high alert while the investigation continues. Crews on the ground reported that authorities have cordoned off the area surrounding Annunciation Church, urging residents to avoid the neighborhood until further notice.
The attack comes amid a particularly violent stretch for Minneapolis. In the previous 24 hours alone, police responded to three separate shootings across the city that left three people dead and at least eight others injured. The added weight of Wednesday’s tragedy has only intensified concerns about rising gun violence and its devastating impact on families and neighborhoods.
Community leaders and residents have already begun gathering outside the church to offer prayers, support, and solidarity to victims and their families. Vigils are expected to be organized in the coming days as the city struggles to cope with yet another heartbreaking event.
Authorities have not yet released details about the suspected shooter, including whether the individual is in custody. Minneapolis police are expected to hold a press conference once more verified information becomes available. For now, the priority remains securing the church grounds and providing critical care to those wounded in the attack.
As the investigation unfolds, Minneapolis residents are left grappling with difficult questions about safety, community resilience, and the urgent need for solutions to America’s ongoing crisis of gun violence.
