12-Year-Old Shooting Survivor Returns Home After 57 Days

URGENT UPDATE: A 12-year-old girl, Sophia Forchas, has returned home after 57 days in the hospital following a devastating shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. The girl, who was shot in the head while praying with her classmates on August 27, 2023, was greeted by dozens of cheering residents and a police motorcade as she made her way through the city on Thursday.

Sophia’s remarkable recovery comes after a harrowing hospital stay that included the removal of half of her skull to alleviate swelling in her brain. As she exited Gillette Children’s Hospital, a video shared by Mayor Jacob Frey captured the emotional moment, with supporters waving signs and balloons to celebrate her return home.

The shooting, which occurred during the first week of classes, left two children dead and injured 20 others. Eyewitnesses reported panic as students dove for cover under pews while the shooter fired through stained glass windows, blocking worshippers from escaping through barricaded doors. The tragedy claimed the lives of children aged 8 and 10, while Sophia’s brother survived unharmed.

After her release, Sophia visited Hennepin Healthcare to thank first responders who cared for her, where hospital staff greeted her with hugs and a sign reading “Sophia Strong.” “She has inspired so many of us, and this day is truly a reason to celebrate,” the hospital stated.

Sophia’s mother, a pediatric critical care nurse, was working her shift at Hennepin County Medical Center when the shooting occurred, unaware that her children’s school was involved. The family had previously described Sophia’s gunshot wound as “devastating,” but her progress has been nothing short of miraculous.

“Welcome home, Sophia. Minneapolis loves you,” Mayor Frey tweeted, expressing his joy over her return. As she heads home just in time to celebrate her upcoming 13th birthday, the community remains united in support for Sophia and her family.

Looking ahead, the road to recovery remains steep, but Sophia’s determination continues to shine. “She is fighting not just for herself, but for every soul who stood by her in prayer,” her family said in a statement.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the ongoing support for Sophia and the community affected by this tragedy.