BREAKING: Two Children Killed While Praying in Minneapolis School Mass Shooting

Minneapolis, MN — What began as an ordinary school morning in Minneapolis descended into horror on Tuesday when a gunman stormed a local school, opening fire in what authorities are calling one of the most devastating school shootings in recent city history. Two children, identified as elementary-aged students, were killed as they knelt in prayer inside the school’s small chapel. Several others were injured before police subdued the suspect.

A Morning of Terror

The shooting unfolded just after 9:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Academy, a private K–8 school known for its close-knit community and faith-based curriculum. Witnesses say the day began like any other—students gathered for their routine morning assembly and some went to the chapel for quiet prayer before class. Within minutes, the peaceful routine was shattered by the sound of gunfire echoing through the halls.

“It was chaos,” said Anna Rodriguez, a seventh-grader who had been on her way to homeroom when the shots rang out. “We heard loud bangs, and the teachers started yelling at us to run and hide. I’ll never forget the sound of the screaming.”

According to law enforcement officials, the suspect—a 32-year-old male whose name has not yet been released—entered the school armed with a semi-automatic rifle. Investigators believe he had no personal connection to the school. His motive remains unclear.

Tragedy in the Chapel

Inside the school’s small prayer room, several children had gathered for their morning devotion. Police confirmed that it was here the suspect opened fire, killing two students instantly. Their identities have not yet been released pending notification of family members, but officials described them as “bright, beloved children whose loss is a wound the community may never heal.”

The children’s classmates, some as young as six, were forced to witness the horrifying scene. Survivors told officers they clutched each other’s hands, whispering prayers as the gunman fired.

“This was an act of pure evil,” said Police Chief Dana Holloway during a press briefing. “Children were praying. They were in a place of peace, and they were targeted without mercy.”

Swift Police Response

Emergency calls flooded 911 within minutes of the first shots. A nearby patrol unit arrived quickly, confronting the gunman inside the building. Officials say the suspect exchanged gunfire with officers before being wounded and taken into custody. His injuries are not life-threatening, and he is currently under heavy guard at a local hospital.

Authorities praised the rapid response of both school staff and first responders, noting that their quick actions likely prevented a much higher death toll. Teachers reportedly locked classroom doors, ushered students into safe corners, and kept them calm until officers cleared the building.

“We owe those teachers and staff a debt of gratitude,” Chief Holloway said. “They followed protocols under unimaginable stress and saved lives.”

Injured Survivors

At least six additional students were transported to local hospitals with varying injuries, including gunshot wounds and trauma from trying to escape the building. Doctors at Hennepin County Medical Center reported that three remain in critical condition.

Parents rushed to the school throughout the day, desperate for news of their children. A reunification center was established at a nearby church, where sobbing families embraced their children as officials slowly released them from lockdown.

“It’s every parent’s nightmare,” said Michael Grant, whose 10-year-old daughter was unharmed but deeply shaken. “She just kept asking me why someone would want to hurt kids who were praying. I don’t have an answer for her.”

Community in Mourning

By late afternoon, hundreds of community members gathered for an impromptu candlelight vigil outside the school. People brought flowers, teddy bears, and handwritten notes for the victims. Hymns and prayers filled the air as parents clung to their children.

“This is a wound to all of us,” said Reverend Samuel Greene, the pastor of St. Mary’s Church, which operates the academy. “We mourn the lives of two of our little ones, and we pray for healing for the others who were injured. We also pray for the courage to confront the violence that has stolen their futures.”

Local leaders expressed shock and grief. Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the violence, pledging full support for the grieving families. “Minneapolis is heartbroken tonight. We will wrap our arms around these families and this school community, but we must also come together to demand change so that this never happens again.”

A Broader Crisis

The tragedy adds to a grim national tally of school shootings that have plagued communities across the United States in recent years. According to the nonprofit Gun Violence Archive, there have been more than 300 mass shootings nationwide in 2025 alone, with a growing percentage occurring in schools.

Advocates renewed calls for stronger gun laws, mental health resources, and school safety measures. “How many children must die before we act?” asked Emily Carter, director of Moms Demand Action Minnesota. “These were kids kneeling in prayer. If even that sacred space is not safe, where is?”

Meanwhile, others cautioned against politicizing the tragedy too soon. “Today is about the victims,” said State Senator Mark Hall. “We owe it to these families to mourn before we debate.”

Investigation Underway

Federal agents from the FBI and ATF have joined local authorities in the investigation. Early reports suggest the suspect legally purchased his weapon, though investigators are examining whether he had a history of mental illness or prior criminal activity.

Neighbors described him as “quiet but troubled,” noting recent erratic behavior. One neighbor said he had been ranting online about religious institutions, though officials would not confirm whether this played a role in the attack.

Looking Ahead

St. Mary’s Academy will remain closed for the rest of the week as the community grapples with its grief. Counselors and trauma specialists will be made available for students and families.

“We will not let violence define us,” said Principal Laura Jensen, fighting back tears during a brief statement. “Our school is a place of love, of faith, of community. We will heal, we will support each other, and we will honor the memories of the children we lost.”

As candles flickered in the dark outside the school, one parent summed up the sentiment shared by many: “They were just kids. They were praying. This should never have happened.”