Here’s why Robin Westman chose August 27 for the Minneapolis school shooting

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA: A deadly school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on Wednesday, August 27, left two children dead and ten others injured, including six children and two adults in critical condition.

The suspect, identified as transgender former student Robin Westman, carried out a premeditated attack during the school’s first Mass of the year before taking their own life.

Suspect carried out premeditated attack during Mass

Authorities said Robin Westman, armed with a legally purchased rifle, pistol, and shotgun, attempted to enter the school through the front door, which had been barricaded.

Police reports indicate the shooter had intentionally selected August 27 for the attack after reviewing the school schedule posted online.

“The school schedule is publicly posted online so I should go through that and look for events that look promising. Oooo August 27th that is an all-school mass,” Westman wrote in a July 25 journal entry, using a mix of Russian Cyrillic and English.

They further noted, “It starts at 8:15 so that means it’s after school starts and most parents will probably not be there!”

Robin Westman 'wanted to watch children suffer'

US Attorney for Minnesota Joseph Thompson said the shooter planned to target as many children as possible. “I won’t dignify the attacker’s words by repeating them, they are horrific and vile. But in short, the attacker wanted to watch children suffer,” Thompson said at a press conference on Thursday.

Investigators noted Westman had familiarity with the campus, having attended the school through eighth grade, and with their mother, who worked there as a secretary.

Children’s Minnesota reported that three pediatric patients remain hospitalized, while four others have been discharged. Hennepin Healthcare treated eight additional victims, including six children. Authorities confirmed all surviving victims are expected to recover.

Robin Westman's background

Court documents show that Robin Westman, born Robert Paul Westman, legally changed their name in 2019.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the shooter was born male and later identified as female. Law enforcement continues to investigate Westman’s planning and affiliations, including reports suggesting possible ties to extremist groups.

The incident has raised urgent questions about school safety and mental health monitoring.

Local authorities and school officials are reviewing security protocols to prevent similar attacks in the future, while community members have begun organizing vigils and support initiatives for victims and their families.