10-Year-Old Survivor of Minneapolis Church Shooting Faces Surgery After Bullet Fragment Found Near Artery
Minneapolis, MN — The pews of Annunciation Catholic Church were supposed to be a place of peace and prayer. Instead, they became the scene of unimaginable chaos when gunfire erupted during a recent service, leaving lives forever changed. Among the survivors is 10-year-old Weston Halsne, whose story of survival has both broken hearts and inspired hope.
Weston was sitting just two seats away from the church’s stained-glass windows when bullets tore through the sanctuary. In the panic that followed, he narrowly avoided death thanks to the quick and selfless actions of his best friend, Victor, who threw himself on top of Weston to shield him.
“I was super scared for him,” Weston later said through tears. “I hope you’re OK and I’m praying for you. My friend saved me.”
A Life Saved, but a Long Recovery Ahead
Doctors initially believed Weston had escaped the shooting with only minor injuries. But further scans revealed something terrifying: a bullet fragment lodged in his neck, dangerously close to a major artery.
Specialists have determined that the fragment must be surgically removed to avoid life-threatening complications. The procedure carries risks, and his family has been told that recovery will be long and uncertain.
“He’s so brave,” Weston’s mother said. “When I saw him running into my arms after the shooting, I didn’t think I’d ever let go. He told me, ‘I was super happy, because I was scared that I wasn’t going to see you.’ Those words will never leave me.”
Community Support and Faith
The Annunciation Catholic community, and indeed the entire Minneapolis area, has been shaken by the shooting. Yet, as so often happens in the face of tragedy, compassion has risen from the darkness. Vigils have been held for the victims, and countless neighbors, friends, and strangers have stepped up with donations, meals, and prayers for the Halsne family.
Faith leaders at the church are urging resilience and unity. One parish priest shared, “Evil came into our sacred space, but love has shown itself even stronger. Weston’s survival, thanks to his friend’s sacrifice, is a reminder that courage and compassion are more powerful than fear.”
Weston’s Courage, Our Responsibility
Though the road ahead will be difficult, Weston continues to show resilience far beyond his years. His story is not only one of survival but also of friendship, love, and hope in the darkest of moments.
As Weston prepares for surgery and healing, the community has rallied around him and his family. Friends have launched an online support page where well-wishers can leave prayers, words of encouragement, and financial help for medical expenses.
🙏 Support Weston and his family here: tinyurl.com/ymnvv9zm
Weston’s journey is far from over. But with continued prayers, encouragement, and support, his story will remain a testament to bravery — and to the incredible bond of two children who, in the face of violence, showed the world what true friendship and sacrifice look like.