In the wake of the tragic mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis, families of the victims have come forward to pay moving tributes to those lost and injured in the devastating attack. Two young children were killed, and 18 others were wounded during mass on Wednesday morning, leaving the close-knit church community and the city in mourning.
The children who lost their lives were identified as 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski. Their families shared sorrowful and loving statements remembering their spirits and the joy they brought to those around them.
Jesse Merkel, Fletcher’s father, described his son as a lively boy who loved fishing, cooking, and any sport he was allowed to play. Reflecting on the tragic event, he praised the swift and heroic actions of children and staff at the church that prevented even greater loss of life. “Without these people and their selfless actions, this could have been a tragedy of many magnitudes more,” Merkel said. He requested empathy and privacy as the family grieves, urging others to remember Fletcher for who he was and not the tragic act that ended his life.
Harper Moyski’s parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, called their daughter “bright, joyful, and deeply loved,” highlighting how her laughter and kindness touched everyone who knew her. They expressed the profound grief not only for their daughter but also for Harper’s younger sister, who is coping with the loss of her beloved sibling. The Moyski family also issued a call for action on gun violence and mental health, hoping their daughter’s passing would prompt societal change.
Outside the Annunciation Catholic Church, what began with a few flowers quickly transformed into a powerful memorial of dozens of bouquets, candles, books, and heartfelt notes, symbolizing the community’s grief and solidarity. Families, students, and supporters have visited the site in droves, sharing memories and expressing support for the victims and their families.
Beth Zenisek, whose family has deep roots in the church, reflected on the importance of faith and action amid tragedy. She recalled an African proverb quoted by the school principal shortly after the shooting: “When you pray, move your feet.” Zenisek said this message rings loudly as a call to not only pray but also to take meaningful steps forward. For her, the church is more than a place of worship—it is a spiritual family that supports its members through both joy and hardship.
The attack shocked the community during a sacred moment—the morning Mass—with the shooter opening fire inside the church. Eighteen others, including 15 children, were injured but are expected to survive following the ordeal.
Authorities and first responders received commendations from the victims’ families for their fast responses and life-saving efforts during the attack. The details shared by families underscore not only the heartbreak of loss but also the courage and community strength displayed amid tragedy.
Memorial displays at the church continue to grow, with neighbors and visitors leaving stuffed animals, letters, and symbols of remembrance. A large teddy bear, surrounded by smaller ones and a hand-drawn sign declaring a mother’s everlasting love, places a tender spotlight on the youngest victim’s memory.
As Minneapolis grapples with this harrowing event, the families’ messages of love, remembrance, and a call to action reverberate strongly. They remind all that while their hearts are broken, honoring the victims through community and advocacy may be a vital step toward healing.