Greek American girl among injured in Church of the Annunciation shooting

Two students, ages 8 and 10, were killed on the spot in the attack by Westman, who reportedly identified himself as a woman. The perpetrator had three guns with him, which he had purchased legally and had written anti-Semitic messages and hateful slogans on the magazines, such as “where is your God.”

According to the “National Herald” which contacted Metropolitan Nathanael of Chicago, “Sophia was very active and vibrant in the community of St. Mary’s parish.”

When asked if the girl was seriously injured, Metropolitan Nathanael said that “we will have a better picture in a few days.” Sophia’s parents, Tom and Aimee Fortsa, are by her side praying that she overcomes the danger. Metropolitan Nathanael told “E.K.” that they are very faithful people and are active in many ministries of the community. He also said that he is on his way to Rochester and that tomorrow he will go to Minneapolis to see the parents in person.

The school, which belongs to the Roman Catholic community of Annunciation, was founded in 1923 and covers grades from pre-school to eighth grade. On Wednesday, there was a scheduled Mass for 8:15 a.m. as is customary at the start of the new academic year, as Monday was the first day of classes. In posts from the school on social media, students appear smiling at a welcoming event, showing off summer crafts, playing together and eating ice cream.

A post on social media from in Mineapolis however noted her condition ascriticalQ

"Currently, Sophia has passed through the difficult and long surgery but remains in a critical situation. More will be determined by the loving and caring medical staff in approximately 2 to 3 days. Please know that while I was at the hospital and as the surgery was in progressing at our church the clergy of our vicariate led by our own Metropolitan Nathanael were serving the Divine Liturgy and offering prayers of intercessions for the recovery of Sophia and all the victims."