**12-Year-Old Girl Survives Minneapolis Church Shooting, Released From Hospital in a Heartwarming Homecoming**
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Sophia Forchas, a 12-year-old girl who was shot in the head during a deadly attack at a Minneapolis Catholic church in August, was released from the hospital Thursday. She was greeted with cheers as Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara paraded her around town in a stretch limousine, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Sophia was the most seriously wounded child among those who survived the shooting at the Church of the Annunciation. On August 27, a gunman opened fire with a rifle through the church windows, striking some of the nearly 200 children celebrating Mass during the first week of school. The attack tragically claimed the lives of two children, aged 8 and 10, and wounded 17 others.
Rushed into surgery, Sophia endured a critical emergency operation after a bullet lodged in her brain caused severe damage, including injury to a major blood vessel. Her neurosurgeon, Dr. Walt Galicich, explained that surgeons had to remove the left half of her skull to relieve pressure inside her head.
At a September 5 news conference, Dr. Galicich expressed deep concern, noting he feared Sophia could become “the third fatality in this event.” However, Sophia’s remarkable recovery defied initial expectations.
As she left Hennepin County Medical Center, Dr. Galicich embraced her, while many supporters outside held banners and waved in celebration. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, who accompanied Sophia around the city, described her return home as “nothing short of a miracle.” When arriving at her school’s parking lot, she received roaring applause and warm hugs.
Sophia’s parents, Amy and Tom Forchas, released a statement expressing overwhelming gratitude for the medical professionals who saved their daughter’s life. They called Thursday “one of the most extraordinary days of our lives.”
Though Sophia’s healing journey will continue with outpatient therapy, and a long road to recovery still lies ahead, her parents have been encouraged by daily improvements. They noted progress in her speech, her ability to walk, and “her personality shining through once more.”
Another 12-year-old survivor, Lydia Kaiser, who also suffered a traumatic brain injury during the shooting, was similarly celebrated when she returned to school last week. An online fundraising page has been created to support Lydia’s family.
The community continues to rally around these brave young survivors, offering support and hope in the wake of a tragic event.
https://religionnews.com/2025/10/27/girl-shot-in-minneapolis-church-returns-home-from-the-hospital/