💔 Minneapolis Grieves: Remembering the Children Lost in a School Shooting
A quiet Minneapolis neighborhood was shattered this week after a violent attack outside a church and school left two children dead and dozens more injured.
While investigations into the motives behind the shooting continue, grieving families are determined to ensure their children are remembered for the joy they brought into the world—not for the tragedy that ended their lives.
Honoring Fletcher Merkel
Authorities have identified the victims as 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski, who were fatally shot Wednesday when gunman Robin Westman opened fire outside Annunciation Catholic Church and School.
Fletcher’s father, Jesse Merkel, spoke at a press conference, his voice heavy with grief. “Yesterday, a coward chose to take our eight-year-old son Fletcher away from us,” he said. “Please remember Fletcher for the wonderful person he was, not for the act that ended his life.”
Jesse described Fletcher as a joyful, curious boy who loved cooking, playing sports, and fishing. “We will never again get to hold him, talk to him, play with him, or watch him grow into the incredible young man he was becoming,” Merkel said. “Fletcher, we love you—you’ll always be with us.”
Remembering Harper Moyski
Harper Moyski, 10, also lost her life in the attack shortly after attending the school’s welcome Mass. Her family shared a heartfelt statement celebrating Harper’s vibrancy and urging change:
“Our hearts are shattered, not only as parents but for Harper’s little sister, who adored her and is now grieving the unimaginable,” they said. “While our focus is on grieving Harper, her memory should drive action. No family should endure this pain. Change is possible and necessary—so Harper’s story doesn’t become just another statistic.”
The Shooting and Investigation
The attack injured 18 others, including 15 children and three elderly adults. At least one victim remains in critical condition. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that shooter Robin Westman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Authorities recovered over 10 rifle rounds and noted that Westman legally owned three firearms—a rifle, a shotgun, and a handgun. Investigators are examining a manifesto reportedly posted by Westman on social media prior to the shooting.
🏁 Conclusion
The tragedy at Annunciation Catholic Church has left Minneapolis in mourning. While two families grieve children who will never return home, the broader community struggles to heal from emotional and physical wounds.
As they come together, their voices call for answers, action, and change. Fletcher and Harper’s names—and the joy they brought into the world—will not be forgotten, serving as a somber reminder of the human cost behind headlines and the urgent need to confront gun violence and mental health crises.