Tragic Shooting at Minneapolis Church Sparks Call for Gun Control

During a recent segment of CNN’s “Anderson Cooper 360,” the network featured an 11-year-old named Chloe, who witnessed the devastating mass shooting at the Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis. This event has reignited discussions about firearms regulations in the U.S.

The shooting, perpetrated by a trans man named Robin Westman, occurred on Wednesday morning, resulting in the tragic deaths of two children and injuring at least 17 others. As Chloe recounted her day before the incident, she expressed strong feelings about American gun policies, even suggesting a complete ban on firearms.

Chloe remarked, “We say we’re banning guns. But the problem with banning guns is that it makes people angry. Guns are for hunting, not to hurt wounds.” She seemed torn, acknowledging the need for limits while also understanding the deeper implications of the conversation.

Offering advice to her peers who might face a similar situation, she said, “Run, hide, fight.” She continued, “I don’t want them to be as shocked as everyone else. If they were closest to the window, I would say ‘duck.’ Don’t see it, duck. But if you’re living with injuries, be very grateful.”

Following the shooting, officials explained that the suspect fired from a church window during Mass, tragically killing two children aged eight and ten. It was reported that Westman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound before law enforcement could apprehend him.

Interestingly, Westman had changed his name from Robert in 2019, with court documents indicating that his mother filed for the name change to reflect his gender identity. Reports noted that she worked at the Annunciation Catholic Church.

A video linked to Westman featured alarming images of firearms and a manifesto expressing disturbing thoughts and statements, urging violence including against public figures.

In the manifesto, Westman mentioned discontent with being transgender and voiced concerns about his identity, describing himself as an “embarrassing defeat.” The prelude to such tragic events often leads to larger conversations, and since the shooting, there have been calls from various political figures and media critics for increased gun control measures. Some, like former White House press secretary Jen Psaki, have voiced frustration over mere thoughts and prayers in response to such crises.