Victims of the Catholic School shooting identified as an 8-year-old boy with a passion for family and sports, and a radiant 10-year-old girl who was known for her joy
A gunman opened fire at the Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on Wednesday, resulting in a devastating tragedy that claimed the lives of two young children and injured numerous others.
The two children who lost their lives were identified as 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski. Fletcher, the second youngest of four children, was remembered by his father, Jesse Merkel, as a boy who loved his family, friends, fishing, cooking, and sports. Harper's parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, remembered her as a joyful child.
More than 100 rifle rounds were recovered at the scene, along with three shotgun rounds and one live bullet, according to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara. The shooter, identified as Robin Westman, who had previously changed their name from Robert and identified as female, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene.
The shooter had three legally purchased firearms: a shotgun, a rifle, and a pistol. According to Joseph Thompson, acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota, Westman idolized notorious school shooters and mass murderers in U.S. history.
In addition to the fatalities, fifteen other children, ages 6 to 15, were injured in the shooting, as well as three adult parishioners. As of Thursday morning, two of the victims remained in critical condition.
The families of Fletcher Merkel and Harper Moyski expressed their deep pain and loss. Moyski's parents demanded action to address gun violence and the mental health crisis in the country. Harper's parents hoped her memory would inspire others to work toward a safer, more compassionate world.
Both families shared messages of grief for the Annunciation community and gratefulness for first responders and staff. Jesse Merkel expressed gratitude for the swift and heroic actions of people inside the church during the shooting.
However, no information was provided about any red flags raised before the Minneapolis church shooter amassed an arsenal of guns.
The families of the victims and the wider community are left to cope with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence. The Annunciation Catholic School and the city of Minneapolis are united in their mourning and their commitment to finding a way forward.
