A devastating mass shooting unfolded in Minneapolis at the Annunciation Church, located on the 500 block of West 54th Street, prompting a massive response from police, emergency personnel, and specialized units.
The tragedy occurred on the morning of August 27, 2025, shattering what began as a quiet day for the community. Initial reports confirm that at least two people have lost their lives, while many more have suffered injuries in the chaotic and terrifying event. According to updates provided by KARE 11, nearly 20 individuals were harmed, with at least four victims currently listed in critical condition, fighting for their lives in area hospitals.
Distressingly, several of those caught in the attack are children, many of whom were quickly evacuated from the building by first responders. The sight of frightened young victims being rushed to safety added another heartbreaking layer to an already horrific situation.
The ordeal began around 8:30 AM local time, when gunfire erupted inside the church. Within moments, law enforcement and emergency teams swarmed the area, deploying significant resources to contain the unfolding crisis. Witnesses described a rapid escalation that transformed the quiet neighborhood into a scene of chaos filled with sirens, flashing lights, and terrified residents fleeing the vicinity.
Authorities have also raised concerns about the possible presence of an explosive device inside the church. As a precaution, the bomb squad was dispatched immediately, working alongside heavily armed officers and a Minnesota State Patrol helicopter that circled overhead. Their presence underscores the seriousness of the situation, as investigators consider the possibility of multiple threats.
One resident, Michael Kraabel, who lives nearby in Tangletown, recounted his experience on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He wrote: “I live in Tangletown, Minneapolis and just heard a massive shootout just a couple blocks from my house. 100+ rounds. Now we hear sirens coming.” His words captured the panic felt across the neighborhood as the sounds of gunfire shattered the morning calm.
City officials responded swiftly. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey confirmed that he is closely monitoring the situation, describing it as an act of “horrific violence.” In a statement, he said: “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.” His remarks reflect both the urgency of the response and the city’s efforts to reassure a community shaken to its core.
Meanwhile, police have launched an intense manhunt for the alleged shooter, who was last seen dressed entirely in black and armed with a rifle. The exact status of the suspect remains unclear—whether they are still at large or contained—but authorities have confirmed they are working tirelessly to track down the individual responsible.
The incident triggered widespread fear, with witnesses reporting a swarm of emergency vehicles—possibly 40 or more—racing toward the scene within minutes of the first gunshots. Streets around the church have been cordoned off, and officials are pleading with residents to avoid the area until the situation is fully resolved.
For the Minneapolis community, the shooting has brought shock, sorrow, and anger. What should have been a place of prayer and peace has now become a crime scene marked by bloodshed and grief. Families are anxiously waiting for updates on loved ones, while investigators continue to sift through the evidence in hopes of piecing together exactly what happened.
This remains a developing story, and authorities have promised to release further information as soon as it becomes available. For now, the city mourns, prays, and waits—grappling with yet another senseless act of violence that has left lives shattered and a community forever changed.