Full Breakdown
Stewartville High School Shooting: A Community in Shock
12/13/2025, 1:31:11 AM
Incident Overview
On December 12, 2025, a shooting occurred in the parking lot of Stewartville High School in southern Minnesota around 5 a.m. A male student, a member of the wrestling team, was shot while preparing to board a bus for a wrestling tournament. The shooter, an adult male, subsequently died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The student was rushed to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, where he underwent surgery and is currently reported to be in critical but stable condition.
Context and Immediate Response
The incident unfolded as approximately 40 students and coaches were gathering to leave for a meet in Grand Forks, North Dakota. According to Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson, the first gunshot was heard by the coaches and students, who then discovered the injured student on the ground. A second gunshot followed shortly after, leading to the discovery of the shooter nearby, armed with a rifle. Sheriff Torgerson described the coaches' quick actions in providing aid to the injured student as commendable.
In light of the shooting, Stewartville Public Schools canceled all classes for the day, prioritizing the safety of students and allowing law enforcement to conduct their investigation. Superintendent Belinda Selfors emphasized the district's commitment to supporting students and staff during this difficult time.
Community Reactions
Local officials and community members expressed their shock and sorrow over the incident. State Senator Carla Nelson referred to the shooting as "tragic," extending prayers to the injured student and the community. The Rochester DFL Delegation stated that the community has been "forever changed" by the event, while also expressing gratitude for the swift response from law enforcement.
Investigation and Ongoing Support
The Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including the relationship between the shooter and the student. Sheriff Torgerson noted that no witnesses to the shooting have come forward, and he urged the community to refrain from speculation as the investigation continues. Both families involved are cooperating with authorities.
Counseling services have been made available to students, staff, and families affected by the incident, with support continuing into the following week. Superintendent Selfors reiterated the importance of community support during this challenging time, stating, "We are here to support our students, our staff, and our communities in any way that we can."
Official Statements
Sheriff Kevin Torgerson remarked on the rarity of such incidents in Stewartville, saying, "We just don't have that kind of thing here." He also expressed concern for the broader impact of the shooting on the community, emphasizing the need for support and understanding.
Superintendent Belinda Selfors stated, "This is an incredibly difficult day for our community. In times like these, it is important that we come together to support each other."
Verbatim Quotes
- “Those coaches did a phenomenal job right from the get-go to help the juvenile victim.” — Kevin Torgerson, Olmsted County Sheriff
- “My prayers are especially with the student who is fighting through surgery, with their family, and with the families, classmates, coaches, and teachers as they grieve from this unimaginable shock and pain,” — Carla Nelson, State Senator
- “This incident has impacted far more than just the individuals involved,” — Kevin Torgerson, Olmsted County Sheriff
As the investigation unfolds, the Stewartville community continues to grapple with the emotional aftermath of this tragic event.
