In Minneapolis, two families are carrying the unbearable weight of losing their beloved children, while at the same time transforming their grief into a powerful call for change.
The tragic events at Annunciation Catholic School claimed the lives of 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski—two children remembered for their joy, energy, and the brightness they brought into every space they entered.
Outside the church, a growing memorial of flowers, candles, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes has become a place of remembrance and reflection. Parents, classmates, teachers, and neighbors gather there to honor Fletcher and Harper’s lives and to insist that their loss not fade into silence. Out of the heartbreak, a collective demand has risen: their lives mattered, and their stories must lead to real, lasting protections for other children.
Fletcher’s father, Jesse Merkel, described his son as happiest when outdoors—whether fishing, cooking with his family, or simply running and laughing with endless energy. He remembered Fletcher as curious, loving, and full of joy. In his public remarks, Jesse pleaded that Fletcher not be remembered for how his life was taken, but for the beauty of how he lived.
Harper’s parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, recalled their daughter as a radiant spirit whose laughter could light up even the darkest day. They spoke of their own heartbreak and of the crushing pain now felt by Harper’s younger sister, who adored her big sister and must now grow up without her.
In words that echoed the grief of countless parents across the nation, Harper’s family declared: “No family should ever have to know this kind of pain.” Together with Fletcher’s family, they are urging leaders—local and national—to address urgent issues like school safety, community protection, and mental health resources, which they believe are essential to preventing future tragedies.
In total, 18 people were injured in the incident—15 of them children. Thanks to the bravery and quick action of school staff and students, all of those injured are expected to recover. Jesse Merkel expressed deep gratitude to those who acted selflessly, acknowledging that the outcome could have been even more devastating without their courage.
Since the tragedy, the community has come together in unity and mourning. Candlelight vigils, tributes at the school, and shared prayers have taken place daily. Church leaders have spoken about the need for healing and compassion, while officials emphasized resilience and solidarity. In a national gesture of mourning, President Donald Trump ordered flags across the U.S. to fly at half-staff through August 31 to honor Fletcher and Harper.
Though their pain is immense, both families have vowed to ensure that their children’s names are not lost to headlines alone. They are determined to channel their sorrow into advocacy, to fight for reforms, and to work toward a world where no parent endures the loss of a child to preventable violence.
Through their strength and sorrow, the Merkel and Moyski families are showing that even in the deepest darkness, love and determination can light the way forward. The community continues to carry the laughter, spirit, and joy of Fletcher and Harper—two shining stars whose memory will forever live on in the hearts of many.
