Ex-Secret Service Agent Blames Minnesota Leaders After Deadly Church Shooting

A former Secret Service agent is placing blame on Minnesota Democratic leaders following a tragic mass shooting at a Minneapolis Catholic church that left two children dead and 18 others injured, including 15 children. The attack occurred during a Wednesday mass, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting widespread calls for answers.

During an appearance on Fox News’ The Ingraham Angle, Rich Staropoli harshly criticized Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor Tim Walz. He claimed their progressive ideologies, particularly regarding the transgender community, helped create an environment that led to the deadly shooting carried out by 23-year-old Robin Westman, who took his own life after the attack.

“This guy [Frey] has gone so far out of his way to provide top cover and support for a group of people who are the most mentally unbalanced in the entire world,” Staropoli said. He added, “The left created this shooter,” suggesting the attack was motivated by political and ideological tensions fueled by Democratic leadership.

Staropoli further argued that Democratic leaders nationwide should be held accountable for rhetoric he believes incites violence. “This kid didn’t just wake up and do this,” he claimed. “It’s been festering for months.” He criticized Congress for failing to treat this incident with the same level of scrutiny given to events like January 6.

Meanwhile, investigators are having difficulty obtaining cooperation from the shooter’s family. Westman’s mother, Mary Grace Westman, has hired a criminal defense attorney and has not spoken to police. Records show she supported her child’s legal name change in 2019, citing a transgender identity. The investigation remains ongoing.

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