Authorities in Minneapolis confirmed on Wednesday that the shooter involved in the tragic incident at Annunciation Church and the adjoining Catholic school has been “contained,” easing immediate fears of further violence in the community.
The Minneapolis Police Department issued a statement on social media assuring residents that “there is no active threat to the community at this time. The shooter is contained.” The announcement came after a tense afternoon in which emergency units, local law enforcement, and federal agents responded to the scene at Annunciation Catholic School, located next to Annunciation Church in south Minneapolis.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz was among the first officials to address the unfolding tragedy. In a message shared with the public, he confirmed he had been fully briefed on the situation and that resources from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and the State Patrol were immediately deployed to assist city police. “I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence,” Walz wrote, underlining the anguish that swept through families across the state.
The timing of the incident has further heightened emotions, as Monday marked the official first day of the academic year for students at the K–8 Catholic school. Parents rushed to the scene in search of their children, while staff worked alongside authorities to ensure classrooms were cleared safely. Witnesses described an overwhelming emergency response, with police cars, ambulances, and fire crews surrounding Annunciation Church within minutes of the first reports of gunfire.
Federal agencies also stepped in as the situation escalated. FBI deputy director Dan Bongino confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that federal agents were responding to assist local law enforcement. Meanwhile, Hennepin Healthcare, one of the city’s top Level 1 trauma centers, stated that it was handling an “emergency situation” but declined to provide specific details on the number or condition of victims.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey echoed the urgency and sorrow felt across the city, writing that he was “monitoring reports of horrific violence in South Minneapolis” and had activated the city’s emergency response team to coordinate with state and federal partners.
While officials have reassured the public that the shooter is no longer a threat, many questions remain unanswered, including the motive, the suspect’s identity, and the full scope of injuries. Authorities have promised further updates as the investigation continues, with press conferences expected later this week.
For the Minneapolis community, the attack at Annunciation Church and Catholic school represents not just another episode of gun violence, but a direct assault on spaces of faith, education, and family. In the aftermath, city leaders are calling for unity, while residents prepare for vigils to honor the victims and support those traumatized by the tragedy.
