Minneapolis School Shooting Victims Remembered as Families Share Heartbreaking Tributes

When tragedy strikes, the focus too often falls on the gunman. But in Minneapolis this week, two young lives were stolen in a burst of senseless violence — and their families want the world to remember the light they brought, not the horror of their final moments.

“Please Remember Fletcher”

Authorities confirmed that 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski were killed when a gunman opened fire outside Annunciation Catholic Church and School on Wednesday.

At an emotional press conference, Fletcher’s father, Jesse Merkel, fought back tears as he spoke of the boy he called “bright, joyful, and deeply loved.”

“Yesterday, a coward took our eight-year-old son Fletcher from us,” he said. “Please remember Fletcher for who he was, not for the way his life ended.”

Fletcher, who loved fishing, sports, and cooking, was happiest when surrounded by family. “We will never again get to hold him, talk to him, or watch him become the incredible young man he was meant to be,” Merkel added. “Parents — hug your kids a little tighter tonight. Fletcher, we love you. You’ll always be with us.”

![Courtesy Merkel Family]

Remembering Harper

The second child killed in the attack, Harper Moyski, had just attended a welcome Mass marking the beginning of the school year. Her family described her as a vibrant 10-year-old whose smile lit up every room she entered.

“Our hearts are broken beyond words,” her parents said in a statement. “Harper’s little sister adored her, and the bond they shared was something truly special. The pain of losing her is unbearable.”

But they also turned their grief into a plea for action. “Her memory must be more than just another tragedy. We call on our leaders to take meaningful steps to address gun violence and the mental health crisis. No other family should endure this kind of heartbreak.”

![Courtesy Moyski Family]

18 More Victims Injured

The attack left 18 others wounded — 15 children and three elderly parishioners. Doctors say at least one remains in critical condition.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that the suspected gunman, Robin Westman, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators recovered over 100 spent rifle rounds at the scene and revealed that Westman legally owned three firearms: a shotgun, a rifle, and a pistol.

Although no clear motive has been identified, police are reviewing what appears to be a manifesto the shooter posted on Facebook shortly before the attack.

For the families of Fletcher and Harper, the focus now is not on the gunman, but on keeping their children’s memories alive. Their voices are a reminder: behind every headline are young lives that should have had a future.