Minneapolis Shooter Robin Westman Identified as Female; Court Records Reveal 2019 Name Change

Robin Westman, the suspect in the recent Minneapolis church shooting, has been identified as female. The incident occurred at Annunciation Church during school Mass on August 27, 2025. At least 17 people were injured and 2 children were killed. Police said Westman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

According to court records, Westman was previously known as Robert Paul Westman. Her legal name was changed in 2019 when she was a minor. Her mother filed the change in Dakota County. This detail has raised new discussions around the shooter’s identity and background.

Robin Westman: Suspect in Minneapolis Church Shooting Identified

The shooting took place at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday. It happened while children were attending a church service. The suspect, Robin Westman, fired multiple shots through the windows of the church.

Advertisement

Westman was armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol. According to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, the suspect’s attack was “absolutely reprehensible.” Mayor Jacob Frey added that the shooting was a tragedy beyond words. He stated that the children were literally praying at the time of the attack.

The victims include two children, aged 8 and 10. Their deaths have shocked the local community. At least 17 other people were injured. Westman died from a self-inflicted wound before police could intervene.

As reported by KARE11 and the Minnesota Star Tribune, Westman’s mother worked at the Annunciation Catholic School. The court filing showed her legal name change was due to identifying as female. This application was approved in 2019.

What We Know About Robin Westman’s Background and Identity

Westman had legally changed her name from Robert Paul Westman to Robin M. Westman. The request was filed in Dakota County when she was still a minor. Her mother supported the name change, which was approved.

The documents state that she “identifies as a female” and wanted her name to reflect that. The application was handled lawfully and completed without opposition. Her gender identity has now become a focal point in news reports and public discussions.

Westman’s actions on Wednesday have left a community mourning. Her background, including her obsession with mass shooters like Adam Lanza, is under investigation. Law enforcement is looking into her digital footprints and past behavior.

Investigators believe Westman may have acted alone. The motive behind the shooting is still unclear. Updates will be provided as more information is confirmed by authorities.

Robin Westman remains at the center of national discussion after the Minneapolis shooting. Her past and identity have raised many questions. The tragedy has left the city in shock and grief.

Must Know (FAQ Section)

Who is Robin Westman?

Robin Westman was the suspect in the Minneapolis church shooting. She legally changed her name in 2019 after identifying as female.

What happened at Annunciation Church?

On August 27, 2025, a shooting occurred during school Mass. Westman fired multiple shots, killing 2 children and injuring 17 others.

What is known about Westman’s identity?

Westman was born Robert Paul Westman. Her name was legally changed to Robin M. Westman in 2019 in Dakota County.

Was the suspect known to the school?

Yes. Her mother was an employee of the Annunciation Catholic School. Westman may have had knowledge of the premises.

What weapons did Westman use?

She used a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol. Police confirmed she died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

References: Minnesota Star Tribune, KARE11, Reuters, AP