A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the Minneapolis community after a mass shooting at a Catholic school and church claimed the lives of two young children. The second child victim has now been identified as 10-year-old Harper Moyski, a bright and joyful student at Annunciation Catholic School in south Minneapolis.
Harper Moyski: A Life Cut Short
Harper Moyski was attending a morning mass service at her school when a gunman opened fire, just before 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday. She and 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel were both fatally shot in what has become one of the most devastating school shootings in recent state history.
In a statement shared by her family on Thursday, Harper was remembered as a “bright, joyful, and deeply loved” child whose laughter and kindness “touched everyone who knew her.” Her parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, said their hearts are shattered, not only for themselves but also for Harper’s younger sister, who is now grieving the unimaginable loss of her big sister.
They added, “While our immediate focus is on Harper and our family’s healing, we also believe it is important that her memory fuels action… No family should ever have to endure this kind of pain.”
Call for Action Against Gun Violence
The Moyski family also made a strong appeal for change in their statement. Urging community members and national leaders to take real, meaningful steps to tackle gun violence and the mental health crisis, they said Harper’s death should not become “just another tragedy.” They want her memory to inspire action toward a safer and more compassionate world.
Their words echoed the feelings of many across the country who are once again left asking how such violence can continue to happen—especially in places where children should feel safe.
Details of the Shooting: A Morning Mass Turns to Horror
Authorities reported that 23-year-old Robin Westman was the shooter. Westman, whose mother previously worked at Annunciation Catholic School, opened fire from outside the church building, shooting through windows at children and teachers gathered in prayer. Police say the shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in the school’s parking lot shortly afterward.
In total, 18 people were injured—15 of them children. Three others were elderly churchgoers in their 80s.
Heroic Actions During the Attack
At a press conference, school principal Matthew DeBoer praised teachers and older students for their quick and heroic actions. “Children were ducked down, adults were protecting children, older children were protecting younger children… It could have been significantly worse without their heroic action,” he said.
Despite these efforts, the loss of Harper and Fletcher has left an emotional wound on the school and the entire Minneapolis community.
Community Grief and Support
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey spoke emotionally during a press briefing, calling the shooting “unspeakable.”
“Do not think of these as just somebody else’s kids,” he said. “These were Minneapolis families, these were American families.” He urged everyone to offer love, support, and strength to the grieving families.
Mayor Frey added, “Don’t just say it’s about thoughts and prayers, these kids were literally praying. They should have been safe.”
A Nation in Mourning, A Family Forever Changed
The shooting at Annunciation Catholic School is not just another news story—it’s a life-altering event for families like the Moyski and Merkel families, for classmates, teachers, and a community left in shock.
As Minneapolis grieves, the hope remains that Harper Moyski’s memory will lead to lasting change, and that no more children will lose their lives to senseless violence in the very places meant to protect them.
