MINNEAPOLIS, Aug 29: Two children, Fletcher Merkel, 8, and Harper Moyski, 10, were fatally shot during a Wednesday morning Mass attended by students at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis.
The attack left 15 other children, aged 6 to 15, and three elderly parishioners injured. On Thursday, the grieving parents of the victims spoke out publicly for the first time, urging the community and leaders to confront the root causes of gun violence and mental health issues.
Harper’s parents described her as a joyful, loving 10-year-old adored by her younger sister, saying their family is “shattered” by the loss.
They expressed hope that Harper’s memory would inspire meaningful change to prevent similar tragedies.
Fletcher’s father, Jesse Merkel, remembered his son as a vibrant, sports-loving boy who enjoyed fishing and cooking, asking the public to remember Fletcher for his life, not the violent act that ended it.
Officials praised the bravery of children and teachers who followed active shooter protocols, shielding one another as gunfire erupted. First responders acted swiftly, with the first officer entering the church within minutes, helping to prevent further loss of life. (AP)
