September 24, 2025
Back to all stories

12‑year‑old shot at Minneapolis church shows recovery

Sophia Forchas, a 12-year-old critically wounded when a shooter opened fire through a window at the Church of the Annunciation in Minneapolis less than a month ago, is showing unexpected neurological recovery and will move from acute care to an inpatient rehabilitation program this week. Doctors say she suffered severe brain damage from a bullet that lodged in her brain, underwent emergency surgery including removal of part of her skull to relieve pressure, and remains on a long rehabilitation path; the attack killed two students and wounded 21 others, and the shooter died by suicide.

Crime Public Safety Health

📰 Sources (1)

Girl shot in head in Minneapolis church attack making 'miraculous' progress: Family
ABC News September 23, 2025
New information:
  • Victim: Sophia Forchas, 12, most seriously wounded child among survivors; bullet lodged in her brain and surgeons removed the left half of her skull to relieve pressure
  • Medical update: Family statement via Hennepin Healthcare says she will transfer from acute care to inpatient rehabilitation this week and shows signs of neurological recovery
  • Attack details: Shooter opened fire through a window at the Church of the Annunciation in Minneapolis less than a month ago; two students were killed and 21 people wounded, shooter died by suicide