What happened?
Authorities say the suspect in the Aug. 27 Minneapolis church mass shooting, Robin Westman, fired multiple rounds into the Annunciation Catholic Church, killing two children and injuring 17 others. The gunman later died by a self-inflicted wound.
Family ties
Mary Grace Westman, believed to be Robin Westman’s mother, has a property connection in Naples, Florida. Collier County records show she purchased an East Naples condo in 2022, located west of Santa Barbara Boulevard and south of Interstate 75.
The shooter’s letter to his Mom
Church connection
Mary Grace Westman was a former parish secretary at the church attacked by her son, according to a June 2021 resignation notice posted by a former priest on the church website. She could not be reached for comment.
Public attention in Naples
Neighbors near her East Naples condo said they were unaware of her or any family details when media gathered outside on Aug. 27.
Social media presence
Mary Grace Westman has posted family photos on Instagram, including images of Robin as a child and teen. One caption read: “Love my kids.” Another post showed Robin with relatives in Lake Orion, Michigan, captioned: “Cousin fun !!”
What is known about the shooter
Robin Westman reportedly used a rifle, shotgun, and pistol during the attack. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said “dozens” of rounds were fired through the church windows while students and staff attended Mass during the first week of school. Online messages from Westman were scheduled to post to YouTube during the shooting; the FBI removed these for investigation.
Mother Signed Off on Legal Name and Gender Change to Trans
Public records show that Mary Grace Westman signed documents supporting her son’s legal name and gender change. The filing confirms her involvement in the process, marking a key step in Robin Westman’s transition before the shooting took place.
(Image: Legal record showing Mary Grace Westman’s signature, redacted for privacy.)
Community reaction
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said: “Children are dead. Those families are suffering immense pain right now. Think of this as if it were your own. Every one of us needs to be wrapping our arms around these families, giving them every ounce that we can muster.”
Diocese response
The Diocese of Venice, which oversees Mary Grace Westman’s former church role, emphasized school safety in a statement: “Security at Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Venice has always been a priority and continues to be a critical component of the planning process for each academic year.”
