Imagine a day meant for new beginnings turning into a nightmare. Just as students were settling into their first week of school, the serenity of Annunciation Church in Minneapolis was shattered by the chaos of an active shooter. Around 8:30 a.m., the atmosphere shifted from excited anticipation to sheer terror as shots rang out, sending shockwaves through the community.

Minneapolis police confirmed that an active shooter had opened fire at the church located at 509 W. 54th Street. First responders flooded the scene, leading to a rapid mobilization of police and paramedics who were met with the grim realities of the situation. Sources have revealed to KARE 11's Lou Raguse that there was a significant number of victims, with heartbreaking reports indicating that some of them were children.

As the situation escalated, the Minneapolis Police Department took to social media around 9:30 a.m., reassuring the public that the shooter had been contained and there was no ongoing threat to the community. However, the horror of the incident lingered as families of children attending Annunciation School were directed to a reunification zone at 525 W. 54th Street, desperately waiting for news about their loved ones.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey expressed his concern, stating he was closely monitoring the reports of this horrific violence. He confirmed that Police Chief Brian O'Hara had activated the department's emergency response team and urged residents to give officers the space they needed to effectively manage the situation.

Meanwhile, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz extended his thoughts and prayers to the children and teachers affected by the violence, emphasizing the tragedy of being marred by such an act during their first week of school. He shared on social media that he had been briefed about the shooting and noted that agents from the BCA and troopers from the State Patrol were already on-scene, working alongside Minneapolis police to address the situation.

KARE 11 has multiple crews on-site, actively gathering information and updates as the situation unfolds. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities our communities face and the urgent need for ongoing discussions about safety in places of worship and schools.