Trump, Walz, Biden react to Minneapolis church shooting

The Minnesota Star Tribune
August 27, 2025 at 7:18PM
Gov. Tim Walz bows his head as Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey speaks during a press conference outside Annunciation Church on Wednesday. (Alex Kormann/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Two children were killed in a shooting Wednesday at Annunciation Church in south Minneapolis, police said, and 17 people were injured, 14 of them children. Two are in critical condition. The shooter died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene, according to police.

Here’s how local and national officials are reacting.

Gov. Tim Walz on X

“I’ve been briefed on a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School and will continue to provide updates as we get more information. The BCA and State Patrol are on scene.

“I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence.”

President Donald Trump on Truth Social

“I have been fully briefed on the tragic shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The FBI quickly responded and they are on the scene. The White House will continue to monitor this terrible situation. Please join me in praying for everyone involved!”

Former President Joe Biden on X

“No parent should ever have to bury their child. Jill and I are heartbroken and there are simply no words to adequately mark such a horrific and painful moment. With all our hearts, we are praying for the victims, their families, and the community of Minneapolis.”

Former President Barack Obama on X

“We can’t allow ourselves to become numb to mass shootings. What happened today in Minneapolis is heartbreaking, and Michelle and I are praying for the parents who have lost a child or will be sitting at their hospital bedside after yet another act of unspeakable, unnecessary violence.”

Vice President JD Vance on X

“We’re at the WH monitoring the situation in Minneapolis. Join all of us in praying for the victims!”

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey on X

“I’m monitoring reports of horrific violence in South Minneapolis. I’m in touch with Chief O’Hara and our emergency response team has been activated. We will share more information as soon as we can. Please give our officers the space they need to respond to the situation.”

Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem on X

“DHS is monitoring the horrific shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis.

“We are in communication with our interagency partners, and will share more information as soon as it becomes available.

“I am praying for the victims of this heinous attack and their families.”

Attorney General Pam Bondi on X

“Our federal agents are on the scene of the horrific shooting at the Annunciation Catholic school in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

“My prayers are with everyone involved in this tragedy. Our team will provide updates as we receive them.”

State Sen. Omar Fateh, who is running for mayor, on X

“I am following the shooting at Annunciation Catholic School. I am horrified by the act of violence not only at a school meant to be a safe learning environment but also at a place of faith. Violence targeting our children and places of worship must end. Residents deserve safety.”

Minnesota Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson, R-East Grand Forks, in a statement

“My heart is breaking at the news this morning, and my prayers are with everyone who is affected.

“There is no place for this kind of violence, and attacks on a sacred place and children are especially egregious. As a state we stand together against these violent acts and the wicked individuals who perpetrate them.”

Minneapolis Council Members Emily Koski and Linea Palmisano, who represent the area

“This is a heartbreaking day for our city. Today, we must come together in compassion and support for those directly impacted. Our hearts are with the students, families, educators, and clergy of Annunciation. Please hold our community in your thoughts as we navigate this tragedy together.”

Minnesota DFL Chair Richard Carlbom at the DNC

“It’s a horrific situation for the families and the children within that school community. and as somebody who’s married to a schoolteacher, it sends shockwaves throughout the education community in our state and our nation.

“I’m horrified by the violence itself and heartbroken by the loss of life.”

State Sen. Zaynab Mohamed, who represents the area, on X

“Our beautiful Southside was struck with horrifying gun violence this morning at Annunciation Catholic School.

“Grateful for the response by law enforcement and EMTs providing care to those in need.

“I am absolutely devastated for our community.”

State Rep. María Isa Pérez-Vega, on Instagram

“My thoughts and prayers are with the community of Annunciation Catholic School and the city of Minneapolis. Devastating horrific news. My deepest condolences to all the victims, their families and parishioners.”

Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda in a statement

“I beg for the continued prayers of all of the priests and faithful of this Archdiocese, as well for the prayers of all men and women of good will, that the healing that only God can bring will be poured out on all those who were present at this morning’s Mass and particularly for the affected families who are only now beginning to comprehend the trauma they sustained. We lift up the souls of those who lost their lives to our loving God through the intercession of Our Lady, Queen of Peace.

“My heart is broken as I think about students, teachers, clergy and parishioners and the horror they witnessed in a Church, a place where we should feel safe.

“That today’s tragedy occurred only a day after the tragic shooting near Christo Rey High School increases the sadness about the pain and anger that is present in our communities. We need an end to gun violence. Our community is rightfully outraged at such horrific acts of violence perpetrated against the vulnerable and innocent. They are far too commonplace. While we need to commit to working to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies, we also need to remind ourselves that we have a God of peace and of love, and that it is his love that we will need most as we strive to embrace those who are hurting so deeply.”

U.S. Sen. Tina Smith in a statement:

“This is the most horrific nightmare imaginable for the parents who dropped their children off at the first week back to school. My heart is breaking for my beloved Minneapolis.”

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