Minneapolis, MN – The family of Sophia Forchas, a 12-year-old seventh grader critically injured in last week’s tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church, is asking for prayers and continued support as she fights for her life.
The shooting, which occurred during the first Mass of the school year, left two children dead and 18 others injured, including 15 students. The shooter, Robin Westman, 23, fired into the church through windows using multiple firearms, all of which were legally purchased. Westman died by suicide shortly after the attack, according to police.
Sophia’s Condition and Ongoing Treatment
Sophia, who was attending Mass with classmates, suffered a life-threatening gunshot wound. Her family shared a statement through Rep. Ilhan Omar, confirming that part of her skull had to be removed during emergency surgery to relieve swelling. Doctors are closely monitoring her condition, and more surgery may be needed.
“She would still survive, but they’re not sure what her quality of life would be,” the family said, adding that her recovery remains uncertain and that keeping the brain swelling down is critical in the coming days.
A Mother’s Worst Nightmare
Sophia’s mother, a pediatric critical care nurse, was at the hospital before realizing her daughter was one of the victims. The shooter targeted the church and the school during morning Mass, and Sophia’s younger brother, who also attends the pre-K–8 school, was in the building at the time but was not physically harmed.
The tragedy has shaken the close-knit parish and school community in Minneapolis.
Another Student, Another Hero
Another critically injured student, Lydia Kaiser, remains in intensive care. According to a separate GoFundMe, Lydia was injured while protecting a fellow student during the attack. Her father is a gym teacher at the school. Rep. Omar’s post indicated Lydia is now “going in the right direction,” though her recovery will also be long.
Support Pours In Through Fundraisers
A GoFundMe campaign launched for Sophia has raised nearly $700,000 as of Tuesday afternoon, showing the overwhelming support from both local and national communities. She is described in the fundraiser as a bright, kind, and compassionate young girl who loves her family and friends.
The family has remained largely private during this difficult time but has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of prayers, donations, and encouragement.
Key Details from the Tragedy
| Victim | Status |
|---|---|
| Sophia Forchas (12) | Critical condition, emergency brain surgery |
| Fletcher Merkel (8) | Deceased |
| Harper Moyski (10) | Deceased |
| Lydia Kaiser | In ICU, stable direction |
| Other Injured (15 total) | Stable, varying injuries |
| Shooter: Robin Westman | Deceased (self-inflicted) |
How to Help
Donate to Sophia Forchas’s GoFundMe: To assist with ongoing medical expenses and support her family.
Donate to Lydia Kaiser’s GoFundMe: To help with recovery and hospital costs.
Keep the families and school community in your thoughts and prayers.
A heartbreaking act of violence has left a Minneapolis Catholic school community in mourning. As Sophia Forchas remains in critical condition following surgery, her family urges continued prayers and support. With two children dead and many others hurt, the community now turns to healing while honoring acts of bravery, such as those of Lydia Kaiser, who protected a fellow student during the attack.
