he Minneapolis community is grieving the loss of 8-yr-old Fletcher Merkel, one of two children killed in a mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School on Wednesday. Fletcher, remembered as a vibrant and loving boy, was identified by his father, Jesse Merkel, during an emotional press conference on Thursday.
“Yesterday, a coward decided to take our 8-year-old son Fletcher away from us,” Jesse Merkel said, his voice breaking. “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.” Fletcher, the second youngest of four siblings, loved his family, friends, fishing, cooking, and playing sports. His father urged the public to remember him for his joyful spirit, not the tragedy that ended his life. “Give your kids an extra hug and kiss today. We love you, Fletcher. You’ll always be with us,” he added.
The shooting, which occurred during a school Mass, claimed the lives of Fletcher and 10-year-old Harper Moyski, leaving 18 others injured, including 15 children. The suspect, 23-year-old Robin Westman, a former student at the school, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities described the attack as a hate-driven act targeting children, with the FBI investigating it as domestic terrorism. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara noted the shooter’s “deranged fascination” with past mass shootings, though a specific motive remains unclear.
Jesse Merkel praised the heroic actions of students and staff who shielded others during the attack, preventing an even greater tragedy. The Merkel family, along with the Annunciation community, now faces the difficult journey of healing while calling for empathy and action to address gun violence. A candlelight vigil at Lynnhurst Park drew thousands to honor Fletcher and Harper, reflecting the profound impact of their loss on the city.[](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/annunciation-catholic-school-shooting-victim-identified-rcna227876)[](https://www.fox9.com/news/annunciation-church-school-shooting-fletcher-merkel)[](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g0lyny7ydo)
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