For the first time since tragedy struck, the families of 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski, the two children killed in Wednesday’s mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, have come forward to share their memories and grief publicly.
The victims’ parents described both children as joyful, bright, and deeply loved, leaving behind a painful void in the community.
Fletcher’s family remembered him as a lively, kind-hearted boy who loved exploring, making new friends, and telling stories that made people laugh. “Fletcher was the light of our lives,” his parents shared. “He had a way of bringing joy into every room he walked into. Our hearts are shattered knowing we will never again hear his laugh or see his smile, but we are holding tightly to the memories we have.”
Harper’s parents described their daughter as thoughtful, caring, and full of curiosity about the world. “Harper had a gentle soul and an adventurous spirit,” the family said. “She loved reading, drawing, and helping others. She was wise beyond her years, and her love will remain with us forever. We are devastated at the loss of our sweet girl.”
Both families expressed gratitude for the heroic actions of first responders, medical teams, and community members who tried to save lives in the chaos that followed the shooting during a back-to-school Mass. They also extended their sympathies to the many others injured and traumatized by the violence.
The shooting, carried out by a lone gunman during a packed service, left 17 others injured and has shaken the Minneapolis community to its core. Vigils have been held across the city, with candles, flowers, and handwritten notes now lining the steps of Annunciation Church. Local leaders, school officials, and clergy members have emphasized the importance of coming together in prayer, solidarity, and action.
Counselors and grief support services have been made available for parish members, students, and families. Community organizations are also working to provide resources for those struggling to process the tragedy.
The Merkel and Moyski families have asked for privacy as they continue to grieve, but both families emphasized that they wanted the public to know the names and faces of the children whose lives were stolen. “Our children were not statistics—they were our everything,” one family member said. “We ask that you keep Fletcher and Harper in your hearts, and remember them not for how they died, but for the beautiful lives they lived.”
Funeral arrangements for both children will be announced in the coming days.
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