A disturbing handwritten note allegedly left behind by the Minneapolis shooter has surfaced online — and people are calling it one of the most unsettling things they’ve ever seen.
The note, scrawled across a small notepad page, was reportedly discovered in the aftermath of the tragic events that unfolded earlier this week. While the full contents haven’t been publicly released, images circulating on social media show lines of tightly packed handwriting, addressed “To my family and friends.”
The message, which appears to be a “last post” or final letter, has sparked intense speculation and debate online. Many believe it gives insight into the shooter’s state of mind before carrying out the attack — though others argue sharing it risks glorifying or amplifying the violence.
A glimpse into a dark mindset
From what can be made out in the circulating photo, the note seems to mix apology with anger, bouncing between messages to loved ones and unsettling reflections. At one point, the writer appears to acknowledge “pain” and “struggle,” before shifting into what some readers described as an “unsettling manifesto-like tone.”
Law enforcement sources told local outlets that investigators are combing through the letter for clues about motive, while also analyzing the shooter’s online activity and personal history.
A police spokesperson said:
“We’re aware of this note, and it’s being treated as evidence. What we can say at this point is that it reflects significant emotional turmoil and instability. However, we urge the public not to jump to conclusions until the investigation is complete.”
Viral reaction online
The image of the note quickly went viral after it was shared by outlets like the Daily Mail and reposted across platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Reddit. Thousands of users have weighed in, with some expressing sorrow, while others voiced anger that such a disturbing message was made public at all.
One user wrote:
“This is heartbreaking. You can feel the despair in the handwriting, but it doesn’t excuse what happened. The victims deserve focus, not this letter.”
Another added:
“It’s insane that this was shared. This just gives notoriety to the shooter, when we should be remembering the people they hurt.”
The wider debate
The emergence of the note has reignited a familiar debate: should media outlets publish killers’ final words, or does that risk turning them into dark anti-heroes for the wrong audience?
Criminologists warn that giving too much attention to shooters’ writings can inspire copycat attacks. Instead, they argue, coverage should center on the victims, their families, and the community’s recovery.
Still, many argue that ignoring the note completely would mean glossing over important clues that could help society understand — and maybe prevent — future tragedies.
Where things stand now
At the time of writing, authorities have not confirmed whether the entire note will be released to the public. Investigators are expected to provide further updates in the coming days.
For now, the haunting image of the handwritten page continues to circulate, a grim reminder of the troubled mindset behind an unthinkable act.
