Minneapolis is grieving after a tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church, where two children lost their lives and 18 others were injured during a school Mass. The 23-year-old suspect, who also died at the scene, had recently experienced personal struggles that may have contributed to the attack. Investigators seized documents and personal items from the suspect’s home and uncovered troubling writings that revealed deep emotional distress and family conflict. Authorities have expanded the investigation to include related activity in Florida, though details remain limited.
Amid the sorrow, the families of the young victims — 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski — are honoring their children’s joyful spirits and calling for lasting change. Fletcher was remembered as an energetic, outdoors-loving boy with a passion for sports and cooking, while Harper’s parents described her as a kind, bright child whose laughter touched everyone. Both families, though devastated, are urging leaders and communities to take meaningful steps to address safety and well-being, ensuring that their children’s memories inspire action and hope.