President Donald Trump has ordered that all U.S. flags be flown at half-staff at federal buildings, military posts, and diplomatic facilities worldwide to honor the victims of the tragic school shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The directive will remain in effect until sunset on Sunday, August 31, 2025, following the deadly attack at a Catholic school that claimed the lives of two children and injured 17 others.
HAPPENING NOW!
President @realDonaldTrump orders the White House flags to be flown at half staff in honor of the victims of the Minneapolis shooting 🙏🏼🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/KR7uTIEXDg
— Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) August 27, 2025
White House Issues Proclamation
In an official proclamation, Trump stated: “I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, August 31, 2025.”
The President further directed that the order applies globally: “I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.”
Minneapolis School Shooting Leaves Two Children Dead, 17 Injured
The tragic attack unfolded on Wednesday morning when a shooter opened fire during a Catholic mass at a Minneapolis school marking the first week of classes. Police confirmed that two children, ages eight and ten, were killed, and 17 others—including both students and adults—were injured, with seven in critical condition.
Authorities said the gunman, described as a man in his early 20s, carried multiple weapons, including a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol. The suspect later died from self-inflicted injuries, according to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara.
“Two young children, ages eight and 10, were killed where they sat in the pews,” O’Hara told reporters.
Trump Reacts: ‘Please Join Me in Praying for Everyone Involved’
President Trump expressed condolences and confirmed federal involvement via Truth Social: “I have been fully briefed on the tragic shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The FBI quickly responded and they are on the scene. The White House will continue to monitor this terrible situation. Please join me in praying for everyone involved!”
Mayor Jacob Frey Calls for Action Beyond ‘Thoughts and Prayers’
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also spoke out, urging Americans to take the crisis of gun violence seriously: “All of our kids should be able to go to school or church or anywhere without the fear of gun violence. Don’t just say we need thoughts and prayers. These kids were literally in a church praying. Don’t just think of them as someone else’s kids. Think of them as your own.”
National Mourning Amid Renewed Gun Violence Debate
The Minneapolis tragedy has once again ignited conversations about gun safety, school security, and mental health. With the nation mourning two young lives cut short, flags across America will serve as a solemn reminder of the innocent victims.
