MINNEAPOLIS — Vice President JD Vance visited families and victims affected by a tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church, where two schoolchildren lost their lives and 21 others were injured. The meeting took place merely a week after the horrifying incident occurred during the church’s opening Mass of the school year.
Accompanied by Second Lady Usha Vance, the Vice President encountered heightened security measures as he arrived at the church, a venue that holds personal significance; Vance converted to Catholicism in 2019. Their visit aimed to provide condolences during private meetings with those grieving the loss of their loved ones.
As the Vances approached a memorial adorned with floral tributes, they were met with a crowd of family members and activists. Across the street, observers held signs advocating for stricter gun safety laws, expressing sentiments such as “Pro-Life = Pro-Gun Safety” and “When you pray, move your feet,” highlighting the call for action beyond thoughts and prayers.
Among the mourners was Kacie Sharpe, whose 8-year-old son, Trip, was seated near one of the deceased children. She described a sense of despair, stating that despite repeated instances of gun violence, little has changed to ensure safety in schools. “It’s the most helpless feeling to know that you can’t send your kids to school and have them be safe,” she said.
The meeting between the Vice President and the victims’ families lasted approximately an hour and 45 minutes, but Vance made no immediate public remarks afterwards. As he departed, his motorcade passed a few dozen protesters who held signs proclaiming messages against hate and violence.
Although Archbishop Bernard Hebda of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis was not part of the official visit, he expressed support for the Vice President’s engagement with the families. He acknowledged previous efforts to connect families with local politicians and emphasized the importance of allowing victims to voice their experiences and advocate for future changes.
The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, tragically took his own life after firing over 100 rounds into the church, where numerous students, families, and community members were gathered. Investigators have yet to establish a clear motive for the attack, although Westman had past ties to the school through his mother, a former parish employee, and had previously attended the institution.
Westman’s writings and videos, left behind following the shooting, revealed expressions of hatred towards an array of groups but also admiration for those who commit mass violence. As discussions of safety and prevention continue, Acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson highlighted the urgency for lawmaking to address these underlying issues.
Classes at Annunciation Catholic School have been suspended in the aftermath of the tragedy, and plans for a ceremony to reconsecrate the church remain unnamed. In the meantime, regular Masses have moved to the school gymnasium, ensuring that the communal spirit persists, albeit in a changed environment.
Among those injured, 10-year-old Weston Halsne underwent surgery to address a bullet fragment lodged in his neck. His family confirmed that the procedure was successful, allowing him to expect a full recovery. Weston recounted the heartbreaking moment, recalling how his friend Victor shielded him during the chaos, though Victor was struck by a bullet himself.
As the community grapples with grief and calls for change, the impact of this tragedy has echoed far beyond the walls of the church. Engaging with leaders like Vice President Vance offers families a platform to press for action in light of their profound loss.