Catholic school shooter related to former Kentucky lawmaker

KENTUCKY (FOX 56) — The shooter accused of taking the lives of two children and injuring over a dozen in a Minneapolis Catholic school shooting reportedly has Kentucky ties.

Robin Westman, 23, allegedly used multiple weapons to fire shots through the windows of a church at Annunciation Catholic School before reportedly taking his own life. Westman has

no prior criminal history.

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According to the Associated Press, Westman’s uncle is a former Kentucky lawmaker.

Bob Heleringer, a longtime attorney and republican state representative from Louisville, served the 33rd district from 1980 to 2002, according to the Courier-Journal. He now writes for the Courier-Journal and Kentucky Lantern.

He told the AP that he didnt know the accused shooter well and hadn’t seen Westburn in three to four years. Heleringer called the act of violence an “unspeakable tragedy.”

“We’re praying for my sister and her other children and also, obviously, for these poor, poor children,” Heleringer told the AP over the phone.

Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the Westburn had any connection to Annunciation. The shooter posted a “manifesto” on YouTube, Police Chief Brian O’Hara said. The video has been taken down and is being reviewed by investigators.

Gov. Andy Beshear extended his condolences on Wednesday afternoon.

“American children should be safe and feel safe in their schools, yet today our country faces more heartbreak as we learn of another school shooting, this time in Minneapolis. Britainy and I are praying for the families, students and teachers affected,” Beshear said. “To my friend, Gov. Tim Walz, Kentucky is holding all of Minnesota in our hearts.”

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Lexington said it stands in prayerful solidarity wth the affected families and community.