Minneapolis Police Lieutenant Honored for Heroic Response to Annunciation Church Shooting

Ryan Kelly received a Meritorious Service Award for his bravery and life-saving actions during the 2025 mass shooting.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:58pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent shell casing from a firearm, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic about the tragic Annunciation Church shooting.The Annunciation Church shooting exposed the need for rapid, life-saving response from first responders in the face of mass violence.Minneapolis Today

A Minneapolis police lieutenant has been awarded the Meritorious Service Award for his rapid response and heroic actions during the mass shooting at Annunciation Church on August 27, 2025. Lieutenant Ryan Kelly was among the first law enforcement on the scene, entered the church sanctuary, guided victims to safety, and provided critical medical care that saved lives.

Why it matters

The Annunciation Church shooting was a tragic event that claimed the lives of two children and injured dozens more. Lieutenant Kelly's quick thinking and life-saving actions during the chaotic situation helped prevent further loss of life and underscores the critical role of first responders in active shooter incidents.

The details

According to the Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police, Lieutenant Ryan Kelly drew on his experience as an 18-year U.S. Army combat medic and licensed paramedic to provide immediate aid to victims. Kelly helped establish a triage area in the church sanctuary and rendered critical care that saved numerous lives during the attack.

  • The mass shooting occurred on August 27, 2025 as the community gathered for morning mass during the first week of school.
  • Lieutenant Kelly received the Meritorious Service Award at a ceremony on April 16, 2026.

The players

Lieutenant Ryan Kelly

An 18-year veteran of the Minneapolis Police Department who responded to the Annunciation Church shooting and provided life-saving medical care to victims.

Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police

The organization that awarded Lieutenant Kelly the Meritorious Service Award for his heroic actions during the mass shooting.

Annunciation Church and School

The site of the mass shooting on August 27, 2025 that claimed the lives of two children and injured dozens more.

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What they’re saying

“Lieutenant Kelly's rapid response and medical expertise saved lives during a chaotic and tragic event.”

— Minneapolis Police Department

What’s next

The Minneapolis Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the Annunciation Church shooting.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the critical role of first responders in active shooter situations and the importance of providing comprehensive training and resources to ensure they can effectively respond to and mitigate such events.