Catholic School Shooting Leads to Shared Emotions on The Todd Allbaugh Show

Two children are dead and 17 others hurt after a man opened fire during a Catholic school mass in Minneapolis, MN on Wednesday.

Police identified the suspect as Robert Westman. Authorities say the 23-year-old fired through church windows at children and families gathered for the first week of school. Victims range in age from six to 14, with several in critical condition at local hospitals. Officers say Westman died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. 

Community leaders, guests, and listeners joined Todd Allbaugh for a special edition of The Todd Allbaugh Show and shared their thoughts about the tragedy. 

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Listen to the first hour of the discussion here:

Allbaugh offered comments from Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. 

“Don’t just say this is about thoughts and prayers right now,” Frey says. “These kids were literally praying.” 

Guests echoed the call for more than condolences. They agreed this should underscore both the urgent need for legislative solutions and the importance of families and communities working together to prevent future violence.

Robert Pilot, host of Native Roots Radio across the Civic Media radio network, stressed the need for honest conversations and community support, especially for families and hospital workers dealing directly with this trauma. Pilot is based in the Minneapolis area and when be focusing on updating listeners along with offering mental health support during his nightly program from 8-9 p.m. 

Trygve Olson of The Lincoln Project revealed he is a gun owner. But he is also urging lawmakers to lead on responsible reforms. 

“You can believe in the Second Amendment,” Olson says, “And still agree that no 18-year-old should be buying multiple ARs without anyone asking questions.”

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Listen to the second hour of the discussion here:

Allbaugh also read a tweet from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. He called for unity, writing, “We will get through this together. Hug your kids close.” 

President Donald Trump ordered U.S. flags flown at half-staff through Sunday to honor the victims.