Trump issues statement as 'up to 20 people injured' in Minneapolis school shooting
Donald Trump has issued a statement as up to 20 people are reported to have been injured in a school shooting in Minneapolis.
The POTUS took to Truth Social to share his remarks after news of the shooting was reported at Annunciation Catholic School in the state of Minnesota today (August 27), with images from the scene showing the area on W 54th Street, between Lyndale and Nicollet Avenue, cordoned off by emergency responders.
The incident has taken place in students' first week back at the school following summer vacation, and two federal law enforcement sources who spoke to CBS News said there are as many as 20 injuries.
The sources said the shooter was dressed in all black and was seen carrying a rifle. However, local police have told BBC News that there is no longer an active shooter in the area.
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The official City of Minneapolis account confirmed there is an 'active police situation', though added there is 'no active threat to the community at this time'.
"The gunman is contained," they said, though the school remains an active crime scene.
In his post, Trump assured he had been 'fully briefed' on the shooting, adding: "The FBI quickly responded and they are on the scene."
The POTUS said that the White House would 'continue to monitor this terrible situation'.
"Please join me in praying for everyone involved," Trump added.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has also been briefed, announcing that state patrol authorities are on the scene.
"I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence," he wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
Minnesota senator Tina Smith also condemned the shooting, writing on X: "I’m grateful for the quick response of law enforcement as we continue to gather information. It’s the first week of school. These kids should not be fearing for their lives."
Kristi Noem, US Secretary of Homeland Security, described the shooting as 'horrific', and said the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is monitoring the situation.
A family reunification zone has been set up on 525 W. 54th St.
In a statement, the Minneapolis Police Department said: "The public is advised to stay away from the area to allow emergency personnel to help victims – W. 54th Street between Lyndale and Nicollet Ave. The families of children at the school can go to the reunification zone at the Annunciation School (525 W. 54th St.)."
A motive in the shooting has not been confirmed at the time of writing (August 27).
Topics: Donald Trump, Minnesota, Truth Social, US News
Emily Brown