Minneapolis, MN (AP) – A 12-year-old girl who was shot in the head during a tragic attack at a Minneapolis Catholic church has been released from the hospital, marking a major milestone in her recovery. Sophia Forchas, who was critically wounded during the deadly shooting at the Church of the Annunciation on August 27, 2025, was greeted with cheers and applause as she made her way home on Thursday. Her recovery has been described as nothing short of a miracle by the police chief who paraded her around the city in a stretch limousine.
What Happened: A Tragic Attack on Children
The shooting occurred during a Mass at the church, where nearly 200 children were gathered for the first week of school celebrations. A shooter opened fire with a rifle, shooting through the windows of the church. The attack resulted in the deaths of two children, aged 8 and 10, while 17 others, including Sophia Forchas, were injured. Sophia, who was the most severely wounded among the children, was shot in the head, and doctors initially feared she could become the third fatality from the attack.
A Miraculous Recovery
Sophia was rushed into surgery, where neurosurgeon Dr. Walt Galicich described how the bullet lodged in her brain, damaging a major blood vessel. In an attempt to relieve the pressure, surgeons had to remove the left half of her skull. The situation was dire, but against all odds, Sophia survived. Dr. Galicich had expressed his concerns about her condition, fearing the worst during a September 5 news conference.
After weeks of medical treatment, Sophia’s recovery has been nothing short of extraordinary. On Thursday, she was discharged from Hennepin County Medical Center, where she had been receiving care. Police Chief Brian O’Hara escorted her in a stretch limousine, and as they made their way through the city, people greeted her with applause, banners, and warm hugs.
A Celebration of Her Return
Sophia’s return home was met with an outpouring of love and support from the community. Her parents, Amy and Tom Forchas, expressed their gratitude in a statement, calling the day “one of the most extraordinary days of our lives.” They thanked the medical professionals who saved their daughter’s life and supported her throughout the difficult journey.
Sophia’s recovery is ongoing. She will continue with outpatient therapy, and her parents have shared that they are thrilled to witness her daily improvements, including her speech, ability to walk, and the return of her vibrant personality.
Support for Other Survivors
Sophia’s fellow survivor, 12-year-old Lydia Kaiser, who also sustained a traumatic brain injury in the shooting, was similarly celebrated when she returned to school last week. Lydia, who had to undergo surgery to remove a bullet fragment, was also cheered by the community. An online fundraising campaign has been set up to support Lydia’s recovery and her family.
Looking Ahead
While both girls still have a long road ahead in terms of recovery, their remarkable resilience and the outpouring of support from their community provide hope and inspiration. The tragic shooting continues to weigh heavily on the Minneapolis community, but these moments of triumph serve as a reminder of the strength of the human spirit.
Sophia’s journey is far from over, but the love and dedication she has received from her family, medical team, and the wider community offer a beacon of hope for her continued recovery.
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