The city of Minneapolis is reeling from a senseless act of violence that claimed the lives of two children during Wednesday’s shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in southwest Minneapolis. The victims, 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski, were attending morning mass with classmates when the incident occurred. Authorities have confirmed that 23-year-old Robin Westman opened fire through a church window, leaving Fletcher and Harper dead and injuring more than a dozen others.
Families, friends, and the local community are grappling with grief and shock. In heartfelt statements, the families of the two children honored their lives while pleading for privacy during this devastating time.
Fletcher’s father, Jesse Merkel, spoke outside the church on Thursday, visibly struggling with the depth of his loss. “Yesterday, a coward decided to take our 8-year-old son Fletcher away from us,” he said, fighting back tears. “Because of their actions, we will never be allowed to hold him, talk to him, play with him, and watch him grow into the wonderful young man he was on the path to becoming.”
He described Fletcher as a vibrant, joyful, and curious child, who loved fishing, cooking, sports, and spending time with family and friends. “While the hole in our hearts and lives will never be filled, I hope that in time our family can find healing,” Merkel continued. He also extended his thoughts and prayers to Harper’s family, as well as to the many others injured in the attack.
Harper Moyski, 10, was remembered by family and friends as a bright, compassionate, and spirited child. She loved reading, art, and spending time with her classmates and loved ones. Her family described her as someone who could light up a room with her laughter and whose kindness touched everyone she met. “Harper had an energy and warmth that made the world around her better,” a family statement read. “We are devastated by this loss but will carry her memory in our hearts forever.”
Authorities have confirmed that one child remains in critical condition, with another child and an adult listed as serious, while more than a dozen others sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The incident has prompted an outpouring of support from across Minneapolis, with vigils, prayer services, and community gatherings offering solace and solidarity to the grieving families.
Both families emphasized the importance of remembering Fletcher and Harper not for the violence that ended their lives but for the joy, love, and light they brought into the world. “Please remember Fletcher for the person he was and not the act that ended his life. Give your kids an extra hug and kiss today. We love you, Fletcher. You’ll always be with us,” Jesse Merkel urged.
The tragedy has reignited discussions on school and church safety, mental health, and community support, as residents confront the reality of violence in spaces that are meant to be safe havens for children and families.
As the families mourn, the Minneapolis community continues to rally, offering prayers, condolences, and support while honoring the short but meaningful lives of Fletcher Merkel and Harper Moyski. Their memories are a reminder of innocence lost and a call for compassion, vigilance, and unity in the face of tragedy.