Minneapolis, MN – Authorities have confirmed that the gunman behind the devastating attack at Annunciation Catholic Church and School has been identified as 23-year-old Robin (Robert) Westman. The assault left two children dead and dozens more injured before Westman turned the weapon on himself, bringing the tragedy to a grim close.
As investigators search for answers, a disturbing online manifesto posted by Westman has come to light, offering troubling insights into his inner turmoil. The writings, shared on YouTube shortly before the shooting, reveal deep regret over a gender transition and ongoing struggles with identity.
Disturbing Writings Shared Online
The manifesto, written partly in English and partly in Russian using Cyrillic script, reflects a young man battling despair and dissatisfaction with his appearance.
Westman focused heavily on his long hair, which he associated with his transition:
“I only keep [the long hair] because it is pretty much my last shred of being trans. I am tired of being trans, I wish I never brain-washed myself.”
He admitted frustration with how the long hair affected him daily, even suggesting it would be symbolic to cut it on the day of the attack:
“I can’t cut my hair now as it would be an embarrassing defeat, and it might be a concerning change of character that could get me reported. It just always gets in my way. I will probably chop it on the day of the attack.”
Expressions of Regret and Hopelessness
Westman’s writings also exposed regret about transitioning, along with despair over the perceived impossibility of achieving his desired identity.
“I regret being trans. I wish I was a girl, I just know I cannot achieve that body with the technology we have today. I also can’t afford that.”
According to authorities, these statements highlight the shooter’s ongoing identity struggles and internal conflict in the period leading up to the deadly assault.
A Community in Mourning
The attack shattered the peace of the Annunciation Catholic community, striking at both a church and school where families were gathered. Officials confirmed the deaths of two young children and reported that dozens more individuals suffered injuries during the rampage. Emergency teams transported victims to nearby hospitals, while law enforcement quickly secured the campus.
City leaders described the violence as “unthinkable,” pledging support for the grieving families. Local parishioners and residents have begun organizing prayer vigils and memorial services to honor the victims.
Investigators Search for Motive
Authorities are now reviewing the manifesto and Westman’s broader online activity as part of their investigation into the motive behind the shooting. Experts caution that while such writings provide a window into a shooter’s thoughts, they do not always offer clear explanations for acts of mass violence.
Federal agents are assisting local police to determine whether Westman communicated his plans in advance or engaged with extremist groups online. Forensic specialists are also combing through digital evidence for clues about his preparation and state of mind.
A Lasting Impact
As the community mourns, Westman’s writings reveal a haunting glimpse into the despair that preceded the violence. The combination of personal struggles, regret, and hopelessness expressed in his manifesto now serves as both evidence for investigators and a chilling reminder of the complex factors that can drive individuals toward such devastation.