MINNEAPOLIS — Federal authorities have expanded their probe into the October 19 attack at St. Mary’s Catholic Academy, with the FBI assuming primary jurisdiction amid new revelations about the shooter’s motives—including a virulent hatred of transgender individuals—and statewide mourning marked by flags at half-mast.
FBI Investigation Deepens
The FBI-led task force, which includes local police and Homeland Security, is poring over digital evidence, social media activity, and the shooter’s manifesto to uncover potential ties to extremist networks. Officials confirmed the suspect, 17-year-old Robin Westman, expressed anti-transgender views in private writings, framing them as part of a broader “war against ‘degeneracy.’”
“This is not an isolated incident,” said FBI Special Agent David Chen during a press briefing. “We’re investigating whether Westman was influenced by online hate groups that target both Catholics and LGBTQ+ communities.”
Authorities also revealed Westman researched past mass shootings, including those with anti-LGBTQ+ motivations, and stockpiled weapons in the months before the attack. No evidence of a larger conspiracy has emerged, but agents are interviewing associates and monitoring online chatter.
Motive Clarification: Transgender Hatred as “Secondary Target”
While Westman’s manifesto centered on anti-Catholic conspiracy theories, investigators now emphasize his hatred of transgender people as a key driver. Private journals seized during the raid include slurs against trans students and claims that “gender ideology” was “corrupting Catholic schools.”
“Westman saw transgender individuals as symbols of the ‘moral decay’ he blamed the church for enabling,” explained Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman. “His violence was fueled by a toxic mix of white supremacy, misogyny, and transphobia.”
School officials noted Westman had clashed with transgender classmates prior to the attack, though no formal complaints were filed. Counselors are now working with students to address trauma related to both the shooting and rising anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment.
Minnesota Mourns: Flags at Half-Mast, Vigils Held
Governor Tim Walz ordered all state flags to fly at half-staff until November 1 in honor of the victims: three students killed and seven injured, including a 14-year-old who remains in critical condition.
“We grieve with the families, the students, and the entire Catholic community,” Walz said in a statement. “Hate has no place in Minnesota—or anywhere.”
Vigils were held across the state, with hundreds gathering at the State Capitol and St. Paul Cathedral to pray for healing. Local businesses donated to victim funds, and schools implemented new safety protocols, including metal detectors and increased counseling access.
Ongoing Concerns: Preventing Future Attacks
Experts warn the case underscores the growing threat of ideologically motivated violence targeting marginalized groups. “We can’t ignore the overlap between anti-religious extremism and anti-LGBTQ+ hate,” said Dr. Sarah Klein, a sociologist specializing in domestic terrorism.
Lawmakers are debating bills to strengthen background checks for firearms and fund mental health programs for at-risk youth. Meanwhile, the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis announced plans to partner with advocacy groups to combat hate speech in schools.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. For now, the tragedy has left a community reeling—but determined to confront the hatred that fueled it.
Follow-ups will be provided as more details emerge.
Sources: FBI, Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, Governor Walz’s Office, Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.