Minneapolis shooting victms named as heartbroken father shares devastating plea

It’s often the name of the shooter that dominates headlines after a tragedy, but it is the innocent lives lost — the children, the families, and the futures stolen — who truly deserve to be remembered. In the aftermath of this week’s heartbreaking shooting outside Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis, the focus is slowly turning from the violence itself to the precious lives cut short.

Authorities confirmed that two children were killed during the attack: 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski. As the community reels from the shock, their families have begun to speak out, bravely sharing stories of who these children were — the joy they brought to the world, and the deep void their absence has left behind.

At a somber press conference, Jesse Merkel, Fletcher’s father, stood before cameras and reporters, his voice shaking with grief. “Yesterday, a coward decided to take our eight-year-old son Fletcher away from us,” he said through tears. He went on to describe his son not as a victim, but as a boy full of energy, love, and light — a child who adored cooking with his parents, playing sports, fishing on the weekends, and simply being with his family.

“We will never again be allowed to hold him, talk to him, play with him, or watch him grow into the wonderful young man he was becoming,” Jesse continued. “Please remember Fletcher for the person he was — not for the senseless act that ended his life. He was more than that moment. He was everything to us.” His final plea to the public was simple and universal:

“Give your kids an extra hug and kiss today. We love you, Fletcher. You’ll always be with us.” Similarly, Harper Moyski’s family released a heartfelt statement describing a bright, affectionate, and deeply loved 10-year-old girl, known for her kindness, creativity, and infectious smile. They recalled how Harper had the special ability to “light up every room she walked into,” and how her younger sister absolutely adored her, looking up to her in every way.

“Our hearts are broken not only as parents but also for Harper’s sister, who is grieving an unimaginable loss,” they wrote. “As a family, we are shattered. Words cannot capture the depth of our pain.” But amid that grief, Harper’s family expressed a powerful wish: that her death not be in vain.

“While our immediate focus is on Harper and on healing, we believe her memory must fuel action. No family should ever have to endure this kind of pain. We urge our leaders, our schools, and our communities to take real, meaningful steps to address the twin crises of gun violence and mental health in this country. Change is possible. Change is necessary — so that Harper’s story does not become just another name in a long and tragic list.”

The shooting, which occurred during a back-to-school Mass attended by dozens of students, teachers, and parents, left 18 other people injured, including 15 children and three elderly adults. Emergency responders praised the swift action of bystanders and medical staff, which helped save lives. However, at least one victim remains in critical condition, according to doctors at Hennepin County Medical Center.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that the suspected shooter, Robin Westman, 23, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene. Westman had used three firearms — all legally purchased — including a shotgun, semi-automatic rifle, and handgun. Investigators recovered over 100 spent rifle rounds from the scene, pointing to the level of violence inflicted in mere minutes.

Although a full motive has yet to be determined, authorities believe that Westman posted a disturbing manifesto on Facebook shortly before the attack, in which he expressed violent fantasies and referenced past mass shootings. The content is being analyzed by the FBI and other agencies for links to extremist ideologies and mental health concerns.

As investigators continue piecing together the details of this tragedy, the focus for many has shifted from the “why” to the “who” — who we lost, and who we are as a community in the face of this pain. Local churches and community centers have opened their doors to provide grief counseling and safe spaces for students and families. A candlelight vigil for Fletcher and Harper drew hundreds of mourners, many of them classmates, holding photos, flowers, and handwritten notes.

Parents, educators, and advocates across the nation are once again calling for reform, but for now, in Minneapolis, the families are asking for just one thing: that the world remembers their children — not the violence, but the lives they lived.

“Let the headlines remember their names,” said one family friend.
“Not the shooter’s. Not the hate. Just Fletcher and Harper — two beautiful souls who were taken too soon.”