Featured Image Credit: TOM BAKER/AFP via Getty Images
Topics: Crime, US News, Donald Trump
Lucy Devine
Topics: Crime, US News, Donald Trump
US President Donald Trump has issued a statement following a shooting at a school in Minneapolis.
The shooting took place on Wednesday morning (27 August) at the Annunciation Church, which houses a school, shortly after students arrived for their first day back following the summer holidays.
It is reported that at least 20 people are injured; meanwhile, Sky News has reported that two people have sadly died, and there are at least 20 people who've been reported to have been injured, including six children.
Children's Minnesota, a paediatric trauma hospital, has said that the six children have been admitted for care, adding in a statement: "Our teams are trained to respond in times of crisis, and are fully prepared to care for impacted children. We will not share more details to respect the privacy of our patients and families."
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The shooter is also reported to be dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, with Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara later confirming in a press conference that the gunman 'ultimately took his own life'.
Writing on Truth Social, Trump said: "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!"
Social media photos taken earlier in the morning show the children smiling as they arrive for their first day back for the autumn term. The school caters to children from pre-school to the eighth grade.
It has been reported that students were attending a mass, with a calendar on the school's website showing that a mass was scheduled for 8:15 a.m.
O'Hara said that the attacker began firing from the church windows, as he continued: "During the mass, a gunman approached from the outside of the building. He struck children and worshippers that were inside the building."
Following the tragic event, numerous political figures have issued statements on social media.
Minnesota Senator Tina Smith wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “I’m grateful for the quick response of law enforcement as we continue to gather information. It’s the first week of school. These kids should not be fearing for their lives."
Meanwhile, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz added: “I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence."
And United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem added: "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."
Mayor Jacob Frey said in a briefing that he is 'so deeply saddened' by what has happened, and that a resource centre for any families affected would be set up.