As authorities ID suspect, Fall River Diocese Bishop Edgar da Cunha issues statement on Minneapolis church shooting that killed and injured children

FALL RIVER — Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., has issued the following statement in response to the shooting today in a Catholic church in Minneapolis:

“In the wake of the heartbreaking violence at Annunciation Catholic Church today in Minneapolis, our hearts are heavy with sorrow. We rightly expect that a church should be a place of sanctuary and peace. What should have been a joyful celebration for Catholic school students to begin a new school year has become the latest tragedy that we now struggle to comprehend. Together with Catholics across the Diocese of Fall River, I mourn the innocent lives lost and pray for healing for all those affected—students, families, educators, and the entire community.

“This afternoon, I sent an email to all our parishes, reminding them of the importance of being proactive in ensuring the safety of parishioners and with schools, their students, faculty, and families. I shared that while faith is our foundation, preparedness is a form of stewardship. To help them prepare, the communications included parish safety and security guidance provided to us by our insurance company.

“May God bring comfort to those grieving, strength to those recovering, and peace to a community shaken by violence. Let us pray for the safety of all children and school faculty and staff around the country.”

According to NBC News, two children are dead, ages 8 and 10, after the suspect, 23-year-old Robin Westman, opened fire at the Annunciation Catholic School during a morning Mass on the south side of Minneapolis. 17 others, including 14 children, were injured. Westman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.