Authorities have identified the former girlfriend of the Minneapolis school shooter as 22-year-old Abigail Bodick. According to reports, the two had dated for several years before a recent breakup that was cited in the shooter’s writings as a source of distress.
Bodick, who has attended anime conventions and sometimes wore animal-themed costumes, was referenced multiple times in the shooter’s journal, which investigators are reviewing for insight into motive. The shooter allegedly described episodes of conflict in the relationship, including violent thoughts, according to excerpts published by the New York Post.
The 23-year-old shooter, identified as Robin Westman, attacked a back-to-school mass at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis last week. Two students, 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski, were killed. Eighteen others, ranging in age from children to elderly parishioners, were injured. The shooter died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound in the school parking lot.
Authorities say Westman left behind a handwritten journal in which they expressed struggles with gender identity, regret over medical transition, and references to past acts of violence. Portions of the writings also included references to previous mass shootings. Investigators are continuing to examine both the journal and online activity.
The incident has renewed discussions in Washington about mental health and gun policy. Following Vice President JD Vance’s visit to meet with victims’ families, Justice Department officials confirmed that they are reviewing whether individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria or other mental health conditions should face additional restrictions on firearm access.
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Gender dysphoria is a recognized medical condition involving psychological distress due to a conflict between a person’s assigned sex at birth and their gender identity. Officials say the review is part of broader discussions about balancing individual rights with public safety.
The Justice Department has not announced any formal proposals, but sources familiar with the review said the issue has gained urgency following several high-profile incidents. Lawmakers remain divided, with some Democrats framing the discussion as part of “common sense” gun safety measures, while others caution against singling out specific groups without broader reforms.
