Minneapolis Grieves: Parents Share Heartbreaking Tributes for Young Victims of Annunciation Catholic School Shooting

The Minneapolis community is reeling today, August 29, 2025, as families of the two children tragically killed in Wednesday’s Annunciation Catholic School shooting bravely shared heartbreaking tributes to their lost loved ones. Eight-year-old Fletcher Merkel, a boy who adored fishing, cooking, and sports, and 10-year-old Harper Moyski, remembered for her infectious laughter and kindness, were identified Thursday as the victims of the senseless act of violence.

Fletcher’s father, Jesse Merkel, spoke emotionally outside the school on Thursday, urging parents to “give your kids an extra hug.” He described his son as a wonderful young man whose life was cruelly cut short by a “coward.” “Because of their actions, we will never be allowed to hold him, talk to him, play with him, and watch him grow,” Merkel shared, expressing hope for healing amidst the profound grief.

Harper’s parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, issued a statement remembering their daughter as “bright, joyful, and deeply loved.” They highlighted the devastating impact on Harper’s younger sister and called for meaningful action to prevent similar tragedies. “No family should ever have to endure this kind of pain,” they stated, imploring leaders to address gun violence and the mental health crisis.

The shooting, which occurred during a Mass marking the first week of school, also left eighteen others injured, including 15 children, all of whom are expected to survive. Police identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, a former student whose mother previously worked at the parish. Westman died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Investigators revealed Thursday that Westman “harbored a whole lot of hate towards a wide variety of people and groups” and had a “deranged obsession with previous mass shooters,” according to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara. The motive for targeting children at the church remains under investigation.

Victims’ families praised the swift and heroic actions of those inside the church and first responders, acknowledging that their bravery prevented an even greater tragedy. As memorials grow outside Annunciation Catholic Church, the calls for remembrance and change resonate deeply within a grieving city.

阅读中文版 (Read Chinese Version)

Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.