Minneapolis Mayor Criticized for Rejecting ‘Thoughts and Prayers’ After Catholic School Shooting

Minneapolis, Minnesota, Mayor Jacob Frey (D) is facing intense criticism after rejecting the traditional “thoughts and prayers” in response to the mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School, where two young children were killed and 17 others injured, including 14 students. 

The attack occurred during the school’s start-of-year mass, just two days after classes began, as Resist the Mainstream covered earlier. 

Speaking at a Wednesday press conference, Frey emphasized the gravity of the tragedy and urged action beyond symbolic gestures. 

“Children are dead, there are families that have a deceased child. You cannot put into words the gravity, tragedy or absolute pain of the situation,” Frey said. “Don’t just say this is about thoughts and prayers right now, these kids were literally praying. It was the first week of school, they were in a church.” 

The mayor’s remarks drew sharp online criticism, with some accusing him of politicizing the tragedy at a time when grieving families were seeking comfort. 

Faith leaders also pushed back, stressing that prayer has long served as a source of strength. 

“When our community is under attack, prayer is not meaningless—it is our refuge,” one local priest told parishioners at a vigil. 

Reactions on X have been particularly harsh. 

Juanita Broaddrick wrote, “He is a real Piece of Sh*t. Here he is sobbing and praying at George Floyd’s gold casket. But he doesn’t want you to pray for these kids today.” 

Florida Voice journalist Eric Daugherty added, “What a WEIRD thing to attack after multiple children were violently attacked…what’s wrong with this guy.” 

Another user, Spitfire, commented, “There have been two attacks on Catholic schools in 24 hrs in Minneapolis. Those who are praying are not the problem.” 

Many users also called for Frey’s resignation.

Authorities identified the shooter as Robin Westman, who died at the scene. 

Westman, who was reportedly trans-identifying, dressed in black and carried rifle magazines bearing messages such as “Where Is Your God?,” “For The Children” and “Kill Donald Trump.” 

A manifesto discovered later suggested hostility toward Christians. Investigators also reported a smoke device outside the church.

First responders deployed a Mass Casualty Response unit, with fire and EMS personnel from North Memorial and Allina Health attending to victims. 

A reunification zone was established nearby to safely connect children with their parents. Two victims remain in critical condition. 

Gov. Tim Walz (D) said he had been briefed on the incident and promised ongoing updates. 

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

State and federal agencies, including the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, State Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are assisting in the investigation. 

The shooting comes less than 24 hours after another mass shooting in Minneapolis that left one person dead and six injured, raising broader concerns about public safety and emergency preparedness in the city. 

Despite widespread criticism, Frey has defended his stance, framing the tragedy as a call to action rather than a moment for empty words. 

“This is not just about words or gestures of comfort,” he said. “We need to take real steps so that our children are safe.”

As families mourn, Minneapolis residents and officials grapple with the mayor’s controversial response and the emotional toll of violence in a sacred place, spotlighting the tension between faith, public safety and political leadership during crisis. 

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