Sophia Forchas Returns Home After 57-Day Hospitalization Following Minneapolis Church Shooting

Minneapolis, MN – Sophia Forchas, the 12-year-old survivor of a devastating shooting at the Church of the Annunciation, was released from the hospital on Thursday, October 23, after a 57-day recovery period. Her return home was met with cheers from the community and an escort by Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, marking a significant milestone in her journey. The Post Millennial shared the news, stating, "MINNEAPOLIS MIRACLE: Catholic school shooting survivor 12-year-old Sophia Forchas returns home."

The tragic incident occurred on August 27, when a shooter opened fire through the windows of the Church of the Annunciation during Mass, striking nearly 200 children. The attack resulted in the deaths of two children, aged 8 and 10, and left 17 others wounded. Sophia Forchas sustained a critical gunshot wound to the head, becoming the most seriously injured survivor.

Sophia was rushed into surgery, where doctors discovered a bullet lodged in her brain, causing severe damage to a major blood vessel. Her neurosurgeon, Dr. Walt Galicich, expressed initial fears that she might become "the third fatality in this event," necessitating the removal of the left half of her skull to relieve pressure. Despite the grave prognosis, Sophia's family reported "miraculous" strides in her recovery throughout September.

Her discharge from Gillette Children's Hospital, following rehabilitation, culminated in an emotional reunion with medical staff at Hennepin County Medical Center and a celebratory motorcade through Minneapolis. Her parents, Amy and Tom Forchas, described her return as "one of the most extraordinary days of our lives," expressing profound gratitude for the medical professionals. Sophia's healing journey will continue with outpatient therapy, as she faces a long road to full recovery.