INVESTIGATORS are examining writings, videos and movements by the shooter who opened fire at a Catholic church in Minneapolis, killing two children and wounding 17 others, to determine any connection to the parish or its school.

Police said Robin Westman fired dozens of rounds with a rifle, shotgun and pistol on Wednesday morning during mass at Annunciation Catholic School, before taking their own life. 

The 23-year-old’s mother formerly worked at the church and police believe they attended the school as a child.

Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed all three weapons had been purchased legally.

A manifesto scheduled for release on YouTube appeared to show Westman at the scene and contained disturbing writings. 

The FBI assisted in removing the content, which included references to US President Donald Trump, anti-semitic remarks and references to gun rights.

The motive for the attack was not immediately clear, but FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the attack is being investigated as domestic terrorism and a hate crime against Catholics.

Two children, aged eight and 10, were killed. 

Fourteen other pupils and three elderly parishioners were injured but are expected to survive.

Hundreds attended a vigil on Wednesday night to mourn the victims. 

Mayor Jacob Frey said the city must take action, saying: “People who say that this is not about guns. You got to be kidding me. This is about guns.

“There are other countries around the world where horrific acts have taken place like this, and then they step up to make a change so that it, in fact, does not happen again.”

The tragedy adds to the US’s gun violence crisis, which continues to leave schools, churches and communities shattered by mass shootings.